LUSAKA, April 26 -- The United Nations (UN) on Friday announced an allocation of about 5.5 million U.S. dollars to support Zambia's response to an unprecedented drought that has affected some parts of the country.

The funding comes from the central emergency response fund and was subject to completion of necessary formalities by UN agencies in Zambia, according to a statement released by the UN office in the southern African nation.

According to the statement, the funds will assist the country in providing emergency food aid, distributing clean and safe water, protection, and delivering healthcare services to address drought-related health risks, among other needs.

"The support will also help strengthen resilience in drought-affected communities to mitigate or avoid the humanitarian impacts of the drought and ensure that emergency relief enhances sustainability," the statement said.

Penelope Campbell, the acting UN resident coordinator, welcomed the support and underscored the UN's commitment to helping Zambia respond to the drought emergency.

The UN, she added, stands with Zambia in the challenging time and help alleviate the difficulties due to the El Nino-induced drought.

In February this year, the Zambian government declared a national state of disaster and emergency to enable a rapid response to the prolonged drought which has affected 84 of the country's 116 districts.

  - Xinhua