Norway Announces New NOK 50 million Contribution to 'Grain from Ukraine' Initiative

News story | Date: 26/11/2024 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Norway pledges an additional NOK 50 million (USD 4.5 million) to the "Grain from Ukraine" initiative, a program that plays an important role in combating hunger in regions of the Middle East and Africa facing severe food insecurity.

This contribution underscores Norway's commitment to supporting global food security and aiding countries most affected by hunger and high food prices.

'The program shows the strength of international collaboration," said Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim, Norway's Minister for Development Cooperation. 'Despite the challenges posed by Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine continues to support global food systems, delivering essential relief to countries in need. Norway's increased support underscores its dedication to preventing hunger and fostering stability in regions most affected by global crises. We support this initiative, in addition to supporting increased local food production in countries in the Middle East and Africa'.

Ukraine: A major supporter for Global Food Security

The "Grain from Ukraine" initiative, launched by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in November 2022, ensures the safe transportation of Ukrainian grain to developing countries, particularly in the Global South. This program became increasingly critical after Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Agreement in July 2023, which triggered immediate surges in global food prices. Although prices have since moderated, weakened currencies and high dollar-based costs continue to strain food affordability in many vulnerable countries.

Direct Impact on the Middle East and Africa

The initiative has delivered over 170,000 tons of Ukrainian grain to countries including Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Yemen, and Gaza. With this vital supply, regions such as Gaza-where over 90 percent of the population faces acute food insecurity-have received much-needed relief. Other recipients, like Nigeria, Djibouti, and Mozambique, have similarly benefited from the program, implemented by the World Food Program (WFP).

Norway's Ongoing Support

Norway's latest contribution of NOK 50 million follows an earlier allocation of NOK 100 million to the initiative. In total, the program has received pledges exceeding USD 250 million from over 25 countries. This funding has facilitated the export of Ukrainian grain and cooking oil, which previously accounted for more than 15 precent of global grain exports and over 50 precent of sunflower oil exports before the war.