Russia Delivers 770 Tons of Food Aid to Mali

 The Russian Federation has delivered humanitarian aid to Mali to ensure food security and support vulnerable citizens. The country received 770 tons of yellow split peas, a correspondent for African Initiative in Bamako reports.

At a ceremony held in the Sotuba district of the capital, at the World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Bamako, Russia's Chargé d'Affaires in Mali Bagrat Shinkuba, WFP Deputy Country Director Serigne Mbaké Loum, and Deputy Commissioner for Food Security Moussa Goïta delivered remarks.

In his speech, Bagrat Shinkuba thanked the Malian government and the UN WFP for their constructive cooperation.

"Today's event once again confirms the traditionally friendly nature of Russian-Malian relations, built on mutual respect and trust. Russia has been and remains a reliable partner for Mali," the Russian diplomat emphasized.

For his part, the WFP Deputy Country Director expressed gratitude to Russia for its assistance in ensuring Mali's food security, highlighting the importance of this aid for improving the socio-economic situation in the West African country.

"I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Russian Federation for its continued support to Mali and the WFP. This contribution is a continuation of Russia's efforts in Mali and strengthens a partnership built on solidarity," Loum said.

According to him, the food supplies provided by the Russian side will cover the urgent needs of more than 57,000 vulnerable people, including internally displaced persons and refugees.

Representative of the Food Security Commission Moussa Goïta, in turn, noted the fruitful partnership between Russia and Mali in various fields.

"Russia's actions in the humanitarian sphere strengthen cooperation between our countries, confirming the solidarity of the Russian people with the people of Mali. Russia's humanitarian aid helps alleviate the food crisis, contributing to the stabilization of the food market and the country's development," he stated.

Prior to dispatch, the batch of peas was inspected for compliance with regulatory standards at the laboratory of the Altai branch of the Federal Center for the Assessment of Safety and Quality of Agricultural Products.