The United States has pledged more than $1 billion in additional humanitarian aid to address food insecurity and urgent needs in 31 African countries, including support for refugees, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable communities.
The announcement, made during President Joe Biden’s visit to Angola, allocates nearly $823 million through USAID, with over $202 million sourced from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation. An additional $186 million will come via the U.S. Department of State.
At the U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit in 2022, President Biden reaffirmed America’s commitment to tackling Africa’s food crisis. The continent remains the region with the highest proportion of its population facing hunger. According to the UN, nearly 300 million Africans, or one in five, experienced hunger in 2023, with the situation worsening due to armed conflict, extreme weather, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
This new funding will enhance life-saving support for affected communities, addressing malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and other urgent needs. Humanitarian partners will provide emergency health care, clean water, sanitation services, and protection programs for vulnerable groups, including refugees and internally displaced persons.
A significant portion of the funds, sourced from the Commodity Credit Corporation, will be used to purchase and distribute agricultural commodities from American farmers to deliver food assistance in East and Central Africa. Additionally, the aid will address essential needs such as education, mental health support, and shelter.
The U.S. has long been a major supporter of humanitarian efforts in Africa, with nearly $6.6 billion allocated for sub-Saharan Africa in Fiscal Year 2024 alone. While the commitment remains steadfast, U.S. officials continue to urge the global donor community to contribute more to meet the escalating needs.
This latest announcement underscores the U.S.’s dedication to supporting African nations and communities in overcoming the severe challenges posed by food insecurity and humanitarian crises.
