The European Union has pledged €500 million to support vulnerable people across Africa, particularly in countries ravaged by conflicts and instability.
This funding will be channeled towards humanitarian assistance, primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan, where millions have been displaced due to political instability and armed conflicts.
Specifically, €160 million has been allocated for humanitarian assistance to vulnerable individuals in Sudan in 2025.
The EU’s humanitarian aid will focus on several key regions, including West and Central Africa, the Sahel, Lake Chad basin, North-West Nigeria, Central Africa, the Great Lakes region, and the Greater Horn of Africa.
Resources will be provided through partnerships with United Nations agencies, international organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross, and NGOs working on concrete humanitarian projects.
However, Zimbabwe will not benefit from this funding due to its substantial arrears and perceived unwillingness to roll out reforms.
The country’s funding woes have been worsened by the US suspension of billions of dollars in aid and its failure to service approximately $13 billion in foreign debt.
Critics argue that the recent Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill imposes restrictive measures that could stifle NGO operations and limit human rights advocacy.
This funding pledge aligns with the EU’s broader initiatives to support Africa. In fact, the EU has announced a larger humanitarian aid package of €1.9 billion for 2025, with €510 million specifically designated for Africa.
Additionally, the EU has pledged €500 million for global health initiatives and €134 million for local manufacturing in Africa.
The European Investment Bank will also provide €500 million to support health systems strengthening in Sub-Saharan Africa, aiming to mobilize €1 billion in investments.
