Djibouti City, Djibouti //– A shipment of 48,935 tons of vegetable oil, part of President Zelenskyy’s ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative, has been delivered to Djibouti, providing vital aid to those facing worsening water and food insecurity across the nation.
Through the Grain from Ukraine Initiative, critical shipments of wheat flour and vegetable oil are arriving at Djibouti’s ports, providing much-needed relief to a country grappling with food insecurity issues. In September, nearly 25,000 metric tons of vegetable oil and 668 metric tons of wheat flour were delivered, with an additional 1,000 metric tons of wheat flour set to arrive in the near future.
These shipments offer a lifeline to tens of thousands of people caught in a relentless cycle of deadly droughts, crippling food shortages, and growing insecurity in the region. In a country where over 90 per cent of food is imported, more than 160,000 people in Djibouti are fighting for survival each day. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, this aid brings hope to those who need it most.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has caused unprecedented disruption to Ukrainian trade, displaced millions of Ukrainians, devastated infrastructure, and put 70 million people worldwide at risk of food insecurity. Despite these challenges, Ukraine remains steadfast in its commitment to helping those in Djibouti and around the world.
With the ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative, Ukraine is demonstrating its resolve to fight hunger and fulfil its international responsibility, even while defending its independence.
Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Zelenskyy, commented: “As Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine continues to disrupt global stability, our commitment to providing relief remains unwavering. Djibouti, a key hub in the region, is already sheltering tens of thousands of refugees fleeing conflicts from neighbouring countries. With water scarcity, climate shocks, and rising political tensions worsening the crisis, we are determined to stand by the people of Djibouti and offer essential aid in the face of these overwhelming challenges.”
Oleksandr Zub, Chargé d’Affaires Embassy of Ukraine in Ethiopia, also acknowledged the latest shipment: “We are grateful to see another vital food shipment arrive through the ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative. As Djibouti faces climate change, instability, and a persistent hunger crisis, these shipments represent more than just food—they are a symbol of solidarity, resilience, and hope for recovery in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions”
Dr Chris Fomunyoh, Grain from Ukraine Goodwill Ambassador, welcomed this shipment: “It is inspiring to see Ukraine actively extend its support to Djibouti, strengthening relationships and promoting cooperation despite significant challenges. This effort highlights the critical need for collaboration in addressing the pressing issues facing the region.”
The ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative, launched by President Zelenskyy in 2022, delivers Ukrainian grain to countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East at risk of famine.
Ukraine’s shipments via the Black Sea, despite the threat of attack from the Russian Navy, demonstrate Ukraine’s determination to maintain its role as an international aid provider to other nations.
