On March 16, upon the request of the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Government of Japan decided to provide emergency relief goods (tents, plastic sheets, portable jerry cans, etc.) through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to Zimbabwe in response to the damage caused by the recent flood and cyclone.

Subsequent to the heavy rain since the end of November 2016, Cyclone Dineo struck Zimbabwe, on February 16, resulting in a large number of those affected including the loss of lives, and much physical damage. According to the Government of Zimbabwe, as of 2 March, 246 people have died, 128 people have been injured and 2,579 houses and approximately 70 dams have collapsed.

Upon the request of the Government of Zimbabwe, and in light of the friendly relations between Japan and Zimbabwe, Japan decided to provide emergency assistance to Zimbabwe to meet its humanitarian needs.