(Ecofin Agency) - In FY 2024, the United States contributed nearly $6.6 billion in humanitarian aid to sub-Saharan Africa.

During his visit to Angola on December 3, President Joe Biden (pictured) announced over $1 billion in humanitarian aid to address food insecurity and urgent needs in 31 African countries.

Around $823 million will be channeled through the agency to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This includes over $202 million from the Department of Agriculture and about $186 million from the State Department. The initiative fulfills a promise made during the 2022 US-Africa Summit to support African partners in addressing food insecurity and providing emergency assistance.

The aid will be used for emergency care, water and sanitation services, protection programs, mental health support, education, and shelter for refugees and internally displaced people. Through the Commodity Credit Corporation, agricultural commodities will also be delivered to East and Central Africa.

Sub-Saharan Africa is currently facing a severe food crisis due to conflicts, extreme weather, and economic challenges. In February 2023, the Red Cross reported that about 146 million people were experiencing acute food insecurity. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that humanitarian needs for 2024 amount to $10.9 billion for East and Southern Africa and $8.3 billion for West and Central Africa.

In FY2024, the United States provided nearly $6.6 billion in humanitarian aid to sub-Saharan Africa. The US is urging other donors to increase their contributions to address the growing crisis.