(Ecofin Agency) - The United States has committed nearly $424 million in humanitarian assistance to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), responding to the severe crisis gripping the country. The announcement was made by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on August 7, 2024.

The aid package includes $414 million for urgent needs stemming from ongoing conflicts and mass displacements. Of this amount, more than $170 million comes from the Commodity Credit Corporation, a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These funds will enable USAID to acquire, ship, and distribute surplus agricultural products from American farmers, providing critical food aid to those affected by the crisis.

Additionally, $10 million is allocated to combat the ongoing mpox (monkeypox) outbreak in the country. This effort includes a donation of 50,000 vaccines aimed at curbing the spread of the disease. The assistance package also encompasses child protection measures and initiatives to prevent gender-based violence.

The DRC is currently facing a multifaceted humanitarian and health crisis, exacerbated by a combination of armed conflicts, food insecurity, and disease outbreaks. According to the United Nations, over 25 million people in the DRC are experiencing food insecurity this year. The ongoing violence, internal displacements, natural disasters, and recurring epidemics have led to 5.7 million people being displaced within the country.

In response to these challenges, the U.S. has already provided more than $256 million in health aid this year through bilateral programs. These initiatives have delivered vital treatments to over seven million people, targeting diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria.

With the new aid commitment, U.S. support for the DRC now totals more than $838 million for fiscal year 2024.