September 20, 2022

Ukraine's infrastructure ministry said a third United Nations World Food Program (WFP) chartered vessel left the country's Chornomorsk Black Sea port with around 30,000 tonnes of wheat bound for Ethiopia, Reuters reported.

The Ministry said the ship is sailing toward Ethiopia, as Ethiopia is reportedly on the verge of a food crisis, according to the UN.

Three ships working with the WFP are sailing to Ethiopia and Yemen with more than 90,000 tonnes of wheat on board.

The ministry said they plan to export another 190,000 tonnes, which are currently being purchased by UN partners. In addition to the IKARIA ANGEL, the ministry noted that nine other vessels also departed Ukrainian ports.

The country's grain exports have decreased significantly since the war began because its Black Sea ports, a crucial route for shipments, were shut down. This has increased the price of food globally and raised concerns about shortages in Africa and the Middle East.

A deal between Moscow and Kyiv, mediated by the UN and Turkey, resulted in the opening of three Black Sea ports at the end of July.

-      Reuters