The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) increased its food assistance for Rohingya refugees on Thursday, according to a UN release. The revised food support will be $12 per refugee per month in Cox's Bazar and $13 in Bhashan Char, as informed through a letter to the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC).
Despite significant funding challenges, the RRRC expressed gratitude for WFP's efforts to sustain food assistance at nearly consistent levels. "We acknowledge and appreciate WFP's relentless efforts to mobilise resources, ensuring that those in need are not left behind. We also urge the international community to step forward with the necessary funding so that these life-saving programmes can be sustained in the long term," stated RRRC Mizanur Rahman.
Previously, the WFP had planned to reduce monthly food aid from $12.50 to $6 per refugee, raising concerns about potential widespread hunger in the camps in Cox's Bazar and Bhashan Char. The initial letter confirming the cut was received on March 5. However, the restoration of food ration levels close to the previous amount has brought relief and joy to the Rohingya community.
Mohammad Zubair, Chairman of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human, thanked the WFP for its continued support and urged the international community to ensure the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
