Dhaka: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution from China, provided through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA). The contribution will enable WFP to procure 2,100 metric tons of fortified rice, pulses, and cooking oil-enough to provide a three-month food ration to around 45,000 Rohingya refugees living in the world's largest refugee camp in Cox's Bazar.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director, expressed the significance of the contribution at a handover ceremony held at the WFP Bangladesh Country Office in Dhaka. He emphasized that the funding has arrived at a critical time, allowing WFP to continue delivering food assistance amid rising humanitarian needs and limited resources.
The WFP Country Director also expressed hope that the contribution would not only signify continued engagement but also deepen China's role in addressing the ongoing crisis. In agreement, Chinese embassy's Charg© d'Affaires Dr. Liu Yuyin highlighted the positive impact this support will have on improving living conditions for the Rohingya and alleviating the humanitarian crisis.
The Rohingya crisis, now in its eighth year, has seen the refugee population in Bangladesh surpass one million. A recent influx of 150,000 new arrivals has further strained humanitarian operations and resources. To maintain full food rations for the Rohingya over the next 12 months, WFP requires an additional US$120 million. Without new funding, this vital assistance will run out by the end of October 2025.