On March 16, 2015, Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare of Zimbabwe held the Handover Ceremony of 5400 tons of Rice donated by the Chinese Government to the Zimbabwean Government atthe Grain Marketing Board Aspindale Depot in Harare. Minister of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare Mupfumira, Charge d’Affaires Cui Chun of the Chinese Embassy, beneficiary representatives and about 100 guests attended the ceremony. Minister Mupfumira and Charge d’Affaires Cui Chun signed the acceptance certificate on behalf of the respective government and handed over rice to beneficiary representatives such as orphans and disabled persons on the spot.

Charge d’Affaires Cui Chun said in his speech that the rice donation, being part of the outcome of President Mugabe’s State Visit to China last August, testifies the strong ties between China and Zimbabwe as all-weather partners, especially in the area of food security and agriculture. As the all-weather friend of Zimbabwe, China fully understands the importance of agriculture for Zimbabwe, and is more than willing to support Zimbabwe in its efforts to increase food production and attain food security.

In her speech, Minister Mupfumira said that the government of Zimbabwe is very grateful to China for the donation which will go a long way in alleviating food shortages among the vulnerable communities.