Today, President Joseph R. Biden announced a groundbreaking commitment of over $1 billion in humanitarian assistance to address critical food insecurity and other urgent needs in 31 African countries. The announcement, made during President Biden’s visit to Angola, underscores the United States’ unwavering dedication to alleviating hunger and supporting vulnerable populations across the continent.
This funding includes nearly $823 million from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) – of which more than $202 million is allocated from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation – and nearly $186 million from the U.S. Department of State.
President Biden’s announcement builds on the commitments made during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit, where he pledged to strengthen partnerships with African nations to advance food security and tackle the ongoing food insecurity crisis through targeted humanitarian efforts. According to the United Nations, nearly 300 million Africans—one in five—faced hunger in 2023, with rising numbers of individuals experiencing acute food insecurity and malnutrition driven by armed conflict, extreme weather events, and other emergencies.
“This announcement reaffirms the United States’ steadfast commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our African partners in the fight against food insecurity and supporting the most vulnerable populations,” said President Biden. “Together, we can address this challenge and help communities build a stronger, more resilient future.”
The newly announced funding will empower U.S. humanitarian partners to deliver life-saving assistance, including emergency healthcare, water, sanitation, and hygiene services aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases among at-risk populations. It will also support programs addressing protection, mental health, education, and shelter needs for refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and affected communities.
Additionally, the Commodity Credit Corporation funding enables USAID to procure, ship, and distribute U.S.-produced agricultural commodities to provide essential food aid to food-insecure populations in East and Central Africa. These efforts also strengthen ties between American farmers and communities in need, showcasing the power of global collaboration to address critical challenges.
In Fiscal Year 2024, the United States provided nearly $6.6 billion in humanitarian assistance across sub-Saharan Africa, reaffirming its role as a global leader in responding to crises. While the U.S. continues to step up, President Biden called on the international community to amplify efforts in addressing this historic level of need.
“The scale of the crisis demands a collective response,” said President Biden. “We urge other donors to join us in this critical mission to save lives and build a future where no one suffers from the pangs of hunger.”
The United States remains committed to partnering with African nations to combat food insecurity, alleviate suffering, and foster resilience across the continent. This latest initiative reinforces a shared vision of progress, stability, and dignity for all.
