WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- The United States will contribute $30 million to emergency relief efforts in South Sudan, U.S. officials said Monday.
The donation to the U.N. World Food Program will be delivered via the U.S. Agency for International Development, officials said in a release.
An estimated 1 million people in South Sudan face food shortages because of fighting in the region, high food prices and a cereal deficit, the agency said.
Chris Nikoi, the U.N. food program's lead official in South Sudan said the support is crucial as the agency prepares for the approaching rainy season. "We are extremely grateful to receive this crucial support," Nikoi said.
About 60 percent of South Sudan's roads become impassable during the raining season.
USAID South Sudan Mission Director Kevin Mullally said the money will help the most vulnerable people in South Sudan sustain themselves as they work to rebuild their lives.
