Japan supports WFP’s food assistance to vulnerable Syrian refugees in Jordan

AMMAN — The Government of Japan contributed $1.1 million to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Jordan to provide nutrition-sensitive food assistance to more than 27,000 Syrian refugees living in camps and host communities for one month, according to a WFP statement. 

“WFP is grateful for the continued support of the people and Government of Japan. With overlapping crises and natural disasters around the world making communities more vulnerable, Japan’s new contribution ensures that some of the most vulnerable refugees living in Jordan do not fall deeper into food insecurity,” said WFP Representative and Country Director, Alberto Correia Mendes. 

The contribution was announced by Japan’s Ambassador to Jordan Okuyama Jiro, during a joint field visit with the WFP Representative and Country Director, to a Syrian beneficiary family receiving WFP’s monthly food assistance in Amman.

“Amid increasing global food price, the Government of Japan acknowledges the alarming levels of food insecurity and the heightened vulnerability of refugees in Jordan. We hope our assistance, in collaboration with WFP, will support the food security and nutrition of vulnerable populations, particularly female-headed households and families with persons of disabilities,” noted Okuyama.

The statement said that 465,000 refugees in Jordan are currently receiving monthly cash-based assistance from WFP to help meet their basic food needs. Refugees residing in communities receive $21 (JD15) per person per month, while extremely vulnerable families living in camps and local communities, receive $32 (JD23) per person per month.

Over the past 10 years, Japan has contributed more than $36million to support WFP’s activities in Jordan. This includes supporting direct food assistance and livelihood activities and enhancing food security for Jordanians and refugees at risk.