RIYADH – As 343 million people around the globe face acute hunger, the World Food Programme (WFP) and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) have renewed their commitment to boost humanitarian aid and relief efforts globally – bolstering the longstanding alliance between the UN agency and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to bring hope and alleviate food insecurity around the world.

The Joint Cooperation Program (JCP), signed by KSrelief and WFP during the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum (RIHF), spans five years and is built on a multi-faceted approach to address humanitarian challenges in emergencies, capacity building, disaster risk reduction and logistics.  

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian support plays a valuable role in WFP’s efforts to stop hunger and malnutrition in their tracks. As we look to the future, we are pleased to reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthening and expanding this partnership to reach even more people in need,” said WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain.

Over the decades, a strong partnership has developed between WFP and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whose commitment to humanitarian efforts has been represented by KSrelief since its inception in 2015. 

“We are very pleased to sign this joint cooperation program with our valued partner the World Food Programme to alleviate food insecurity and combat malnutrition through our shared efforts. WFP and KSrelief will continue to strengthen our partnership and continue our work to save and improve the lives of those in need around the world”, said H.E. Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al Rabeeah, Royal Court Advisor and Supervisor General of KSrelief.

Over the past two decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has contributed US$ 2.2 billion to support WFP in the fight against hunger, reaching people in 31 countries. Building on this strong foundation, the partnership continues to expand its reach with a current project portfolio including over US$ 68 million in ongoing humanitarian and development projects.

Alongside cash contributions, the Kingdom's annual contribution of 4,000 metric tons of dates, totaling more than 100,000 metric tons over the years, has enhanced joint programmes in the field. Dates are a vital source of nutrition and cultural significance for many communities in urgent need.

The dates donated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have helped ensure that children in schools, refugees in camps, and other groups on the frontlines of hunger receive essential nutrients. This gift has impacted many lives and is a symbol of compassion and partnership.