Addis Ababa, 18 June 2026 – The United States government announced over $1 billion in humanitarian assistance, with Ethiopia among key recipients.
The assistance will be channeled through the United Nations agencies, UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP), which provide humanitarian support in countries affected by conflict, drought, and other humanitarian crises.
According to a statement released by the U.S. State Department, more than $218 million will be allocated to UNICEF, while more than $800 million will go to WFP. The funding will support operations in more than 40 countries, with Ethiopia mentioned as one of the countries in need of urgent support.
The new assistance will focus on food security, nutrition, healthcare, child protection, water, and sanitation services, all of which are critical for millions of Ethiopians affected by conflict, displacement, and the impacts of climate change.
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The United States said the funding is part of a broader effort to reform the global humanitarian aid system, ensuring that resources reach vulnerable populations more quickly and efficiently. U.S. officials also stated that implementing agencies would be able to mobilize assistance rapidly, in some cases within 24 hours.
Ethiopia remains one of Africa’s countries with substantial humanitarian needs, with millions of people requiring food assistance, healthcare, and other essential services.
The new funding is expected to strengthen ongoing relief efforts in Ethiopia and enhance the capacity of humanitarian organizations to respond to emergencies across the country.