The US commits funds to South Sudan for humanitarian assistance

The United States announced Friday the commitment of more than US$16 million in new humanitarian assistance for nutrition, shelter, water and health services for people suffering from the ongoing effects of the conflict that began in South Sudan in December 2013.

USAID said in a statement, this assistance underscored the United States' long-standing commitment to the people of South Sudan.  With this additional pledge, U.S. emergency assistance for South Sudan had now exceeded $1 billion since the start of the crisis in December 2013.

Nearly 3 million people currently face extreme hunger in South Sudan, according to the USAID-funded Famine Early Warning Systems Network. The agency says that this number will reach 3.5 million by June 2015. The new funding will address urgent nutrition needs for children and provide vital health care to those suffering from acute hunger as a result of the conflict.  It will also provide much-needed shelter and health services, and water, sanitation and hygiene assistance.

In addition to the new assistance, the U.S. Government says it is directly helping South Sudanese people withstand the catastrophic effects of conflict and build foundations for a peaceful future through long-term assistance in health, education, agriculture, livelihoods and other critical areas.

The US agency for international development was however quick to add, “International assistance can alleviate suffering but will not resolve the crisis. For the sake of the people of South Sudan, we urge South Sudan's leaders to make the compromises needed to reach peace,” said USAID.

(USAID)