MAGWI – The Chinese government has donated food items, including rice, maize flour, cooking oil, and salt, to food-insecure families displaced by conflict in February of this year in Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State.
This donation, made on Wednesday, follows a previous contribution of maize flour and other food and non-food items, including tons of emergency food and tents, distributed by China across South Sudan.
Ma Qiang, the Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, stated that this humanitarian support reflects the consensus reached by Chinese President Xi Jinping and His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit.
“The aid to Magwi County today is a concrete practice of China’s commitment to the outcomes of the meeting between the two heads of state, demonstrating our joint effort to build a China-South Sudan community with a shared future,” said Ma during the donation ceremony in Juba.
Ma also noted that the Chinese Business Association and the Overseas Chinese Association in South Sudan have provided additional support, emphasising that humanitarian assistance is an integral part of China’s Africa policy, which is characterised by sincerity, tangible results, goodwill, and friendship.
“The Chinese government has consistently provided significant humanitarian supplies to South Sudan. Last year, we donated nearly 1,000 tons of emergency food assistance and thousands of tents,” he said.
Betty Achan, the Member of Parliament representing Magwi County in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, mentioned that they recently submitted a request for humanitarian assistance for those affected by conflict in the area.
“I am truly excited to be here today, with two lorries behind me carrying food for the people. This means we are extending and improving the lives of these individuals, enabling them to return home and start cultivating again,” Achan stated.
Julius Ajeo Moilinga, the chairperson of the Eastern Equatoria State Parliamentary Caucus in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, expressed their commitment to advocating for the displaced population.
“We have sent letters requesting assistance for our displaced people, and today we stand here with hearts full of joy, bringing hope to our community. We have not given up on South Sudan and our future in this nation,” said Moilinga.
Lawrence Akola Sarafino, the Director General for Planning, Training, and Coordination at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, expressed appreciation for the continued food assistance from the Chinese government.
“Your unwavering support in terms of food and non-food items, along with your encouragement, has helped those in need during this difficult time. Your dedication, compassion, and ongoing support have made a significant impact on the lives of the vulnerable people in South Sudan,” said Akola.
