South Korea Sends $60M in Rice to Help Namibia Flood Victims

When floodwaters swallowed entire villages in Namibia's Zambezi region, help arrived from 6,000 miles away in the form of thousands of bags of rice from South Korea.

The Republic of Korea donated 5,000 metric tonnes of rice valued at approximately $60 million to Namibia last week as severe flooding displaced hundreds of families. Over 75% of the Kabbe South and Kabbe North constituencies are now underwater, with schools, clinics, and police stations completely surrounded by rising waters.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah traveled to the region Wednesday to assess the crisis firsthand. The Zambezi River reached 6.89 meters, its highest level since 2009, leaving communities scrambling for safety.

The government distributed 9,097 bags of rice to affected families, though local leaders say residents prefer their traditional staple of maize meal. Acting chief regional officer Beaven Walubita explained that families aren't familiar with cooking the Korean variety, which has a much shorter cooking time than the rice they know.

The Ripple Effect

Rather than see the cultural difference as a barrier, President Nandi-Ndaitwah saw it as an opportunity for education and adaptation. She encouraged local leaders to help residents understand rice's nutritional benefits and cooking methods, emphasizing that accepting available aid could prevent disease outbreaks that often follow floods.

The relief effort extends far beyond rice. The region received 50 tents for emergency shelter, 100 mattresses and blankets for displaced families, and 25,000 water purification tablets to prevent waterborne illness. Health workers distributed 2,000 mosquito nets to protect against malaria, while one boat now helps medical staff reach isolated clinics in flooded areas.

The regional council is working to relocate three submerged schools to higher ground by next week. Muzii Combined School, Nankuntwe Combined School, and Mpukano Primary School temporarily closed, but officials are preparing 25 tents and food supplies so students and teachers can resume classes safely.

The Red Cross contributed tinned fish, cooking oil, blankets, and kitchen utensils to support families adjusting to displacement. While some residents initially resisted relocation, local leaders continue working to help communities understand the temporary sacrifice could save lives.

The international aid arriving in Namibia shows how countries can step up when disaster strikes halfway around the world.