Biden Promises More Than $1 Billion for Displaced People in Africa

President Joe Biden has pledged over $1 billion in humanitarian support to aid those displaced by adverse conditions in Africa—announcement accompanied by foreign policy goals.

At a Glance

Over $1 billion in humanitarian aid was announced by President Biden for Africans facing displacement due to droughts and food insecurity.
The U.S. aims to pivot its relationship with Africa toward investment and trade.
Biden’s first visit to Africa as President highlights strategic objectives, including countering China’s influence.

Biden’s Commitment to Africa

President Joe Biden announced over $1 billion in humanitarian aid to support Africans displaced by natural disasters in a recent speech. His speech in Angola marked the first visit to Africa during his presidency, emphasizing a shift from aid to investment and trade. With this aid, the United States intends to address urgent needs spanning food insecurity and displacement, delivering through USAID.

“Today, I’m announcing over $1 billion of new humanitarian support for Africans displaced from homes by historic droughts,” the U.S. president stated, noting that it was the “right thing for the wealthiest nation in the world to do.”

Sub-Saharan Africa battles severe food crisis conditions, with 146 million facing acute insecurity. USAID funds will cover emergency care, water and sanitation services, education, and shelter requirements. As Africa grapples with these challenges, increased humanitarian aid seeks to establish a significant American presence in the region.

Today, @POTUS announced more than $1 billion in additional U.S. humanitarian aid to address critical needs in 31 African countries. This funding, including nearly $823 million from @USAID, supports emergency food, health & other lifesaving aid for refugees & the most vulnerable. https://t.co/MhcT39bOGa

— USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (@USAIDSavesLives) December 3, 2024

Competing Global Interests

Biden’s foreign policy extends beyond humanitarian relief. The administration has committed $3 billion to a railway project in Lobito, Angola, countering China’s aggressive infrastructure initiative. This investment aims to bolster economic ties and fortify America’s influence across Africa—a strategic move illustrating the ideal of shifting from patrons to partners.

The announcement also ties back to Biden’s emphasis on broadening African representation on the global stage, including pushing for increased representation in the UN Security Council. The initiative aligns with his previous efforts to welcome greater international cooperation with, and recognition of, African nations.