DP World, WFP deliver 5,000 tonnes of rice to East Africa in humanitarian partnership
The shipments are part of a broader collaboration between DP World and WFP, signed in 2025, to improve the efficiency, reach, and sustainability of humanitarian logistics networks.
GLOBAL – DP World and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have delivered 5,000 metric tonnes of rice to support humanitarian operations in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda.
The rice was transported from DP World’s Mundra Terminal in India to the Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania through DP World’s Shipping Solutions business, formerly known as Unifeeder.
WFP then moved the cargo overland through its regional logistics network to humanitarian operations in the three countries. The shipments will support WFP’s emergency food assistance programmes and provide food assistance to more than 14,200 additional people for one month.
Moreover, the arrangement includes pro bono support from DP World covering part of the ocean freight costs from India to East Africa. The shipments aim to strengthen humanitarian supply chains and improve access to essential food supplies in communities with high needs.
Humanitarian Crisis Context
The DRC is facing one of the world’s largest hunger crises, with more than 27 million people experiencing acute food insecurity. The crisis is being driven by conflict and displacement and compounded by the ongoing effects of the Ebola outbreak.
Meanwhile, Burundi is also facing growing humanitarian pressures following the arrival of families fleeing insecurity in eastern DRC, putting additional pressure on vulnerable communities and local food systems.
On the other hand, Rwanda continues to support refugees and asylum seekers from neighbouring countries.
Private Sector Partnership and Impact
Ganesh Raj, Global Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services, DP World, said, “At DP World, we play a vital role in keeping critical supplies moving when they are needed most. This partnership shows what can be achieved when humanitarian expertise and global supply chain capability come together with a shared purpose.”
Ayla Bajwa, Group Senior Vice President – Sustainability, DP World, said, “By working alongside WFP, we are applying our expertise and infrastructure to help ensure vital food supplies reach those who need them most.”
Broader Collaboration and Future Outlook
The shipments are part of a broader collaboration between DP World and WFP, signed in 2025, to improve the efficiency, reach, and sustainability of humanitarian logistics networks.
Ultimately, the partnership also covers efforts beyond emergency response, including disaster preparedness, regional logistics capabilities and long-term recovery.
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