Barack Obama, US President.

US President Barack Obama has called on the richest countries to offer funds to countries hosting refugees from South Sudan and other parts of the world.

President Obama said there are over 21 million refugees who have fled their homes and are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

He appealed to wealthy nations in the West and Asia to offer support to millions of women and children facing starvation due to conflicts in their countries.

Obama, who was making his last remarks as President at the UN General Assembly this week, says the world should also put pressure on leaders who are using violence to displace their citizens.

He says leaders should not be allowed to continue to use violence to achieve their interests.

“The mentality that allows for violence with impunity is something we cannot excuse,” President Obama stated.

“Ultimately, our world will be more secure if we are prepared to help those in need, and the nations who are carrying the largest burden –with respect to accommodating these refugees.”

President Obama said 4.5 billion dollars has been contributed so far, including a 1 billion dollars increase from the US for lifesaving food, clothing, medicine and shelter.