Food assistance: WFP warns against selling food intended for the most vulnerable
In a context where food security is a major issue, the World Food Program (WFP) would like to remind the population that its food assistance, particularly foodstuffs, is not for sale. The WFP warns against the illegal practices of certain individuals who exploit vulnerable displaced people by purchasing their assistance at ridiculous prices.
In a press release published on October 9, 2023, WFP expresses its deep dismay at these actions and informs the public that it is strictly prohibited to buy or sell these assistance products. The aid provided by WFP is intended to be distributed free of charge to people in need, as part of humanitarian assistance. Any attempt to buy or sell these commodities is considered a flagrant violation of humanitarian principles.
The WFP also emphasizes that people who are caught in the act of buying or selling these products will be subject to legal action by the competent authorities. The consequences of these illegal acts could also be the suspension of WFP humanitarian activities in the affected areas, which would have a direct impact on the people and communities in need of assistance.
As part of its mission to combat food and nutritional insecurity, the WFP therefore calls for everyone’s cooperation to avoid any exploitation of vulnerable people and ensure that food assistance reaches people who really need it.
It is essential to remember that food security is a crucial issue, even more so in situations of crisis or forced displacement. The sale of foodstuffs intended for food assistance only worsens the situation of already vulnerable people and compromises efforts to ensure their access to adequate food.
In conclusion, the WFP warns against illegal practices linked to the sale of food assistance commodities and recalls that the aid provided is intended to be distributed free of charge to people in need. It calls for everyone to cooperate to combat food insecurity and ensure equitable access to food for all.