from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya Bureau
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – AID agencies disbursed US$268,5 million in assistance to over 6 million impacted people in East Africa in the second quarter of 2025.
Recipients, in the eight countries, faced a convergence of crises driven by conflict, climate shocks and economic pressures.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that cash and voucher assistance (CVA) remained a vital and dignified lifeline, including $130,4 million disbursed to 5,1 million people during the quarter.
OCHA noticed that regional trends showed stark contrasts.
Sudan recorded the highest cash disbursements amid inflation and conflict-related disruptions, while Somalia reached the largest number of people through smaller transfers implemented by national partners, reflecting strong local capacity.
“Overall, countries in the region are moving toward more stable CVA programming anchored in recovery and resilience, as partners adjust transfer values and delivery approaches to align with evolving humanitarian and economic contexts.”
These patterns highlight how CVA operations in the region are shaped by seasonal shocks, evolving conflicts, and donor cycles that often favour reactive rather than sustained support.
Some 105 partners were active in the second quarter.
However, a total of 286 organizations were active between January and June—more than half of them national non-governmental organisations—delivering life-saving assistance that helped families meet essential needs and sustain livelihoods.
– CAJ News