South Korea has contributed over 10,000 metric tonnes of rice, valued at approximately USD 9.53 million (Sh1.2 billion), to bolster food supplies for nearly 500,000 refugees in Kenya’s Dadaab and Kakuma camps.

The donation was officially received at the World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mombasa in a ceremony attended by key officials including Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services Dr Belio Kipsang, South Korean Ambassador Kang Hyung-shik, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir.

Addressing Growing Humanitarian Needs

Dr Kipsang highlighted that this rice donation offers critical relief amid shrinking global humanitarian funding, which has affected food assistance for refugees. He acknowledged South Korea’s ongoing support since 2018, during which over 132,000 metric tonnes of rice have been supplied through the WFP.

Though the current shipment is smaller than last year’s, the government values the continued partnership, especially as Kenya implements the Shirika Plan aimed at enhancing refugee self-reliance through education, employment, and access to essential services.

"Reliable food assistance remains vital," Dr Kipsang said, stressing that hunger undermines both education and livelihood development.

South Korea’s Commitment and Partnership

Ambassador Kang Hyung-shik noted South Korea’s sustained collaboration with the WFP since a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding, enabling regular rice donations to refugees in Kenya and neighboring countries. He emphasized Kenya’s role in hosting displaced populations despite resource strains.

The ambassador shared insights from his visit to Kakuma Refugee Camp, underscoring the need for continued international support amid global economic and geopolitical challenges. He also reflected on South Korea’s evolution from aid recipient to major development partner, which informs its humanitarian approach.

Ambassador Kang further mentioned expanding bilateral cooperation with Kenya through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), including initiatives in education, science, technology, and humanitarian aid.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Appeal

Dr Kipsang commended the efforts of the WFP, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards, and government agencies in managing the rice shipment’s clearance and distribution. He called on development partners to sustain both emergency relief and long-term development programs to find durable solutions for displaced communities.

This rice donation is expected to significantly support food assistance efforts amid ongoing funding constraints impacting humanitarian operations in Kenya’s refugee camps.