The Chinese government has donated $5 million for its emergency response to the worsening food security in South Sudan.

The UN World Food Program says the contribution will be used to assist people in the states affected by the conflict. These include Upper Nile, Unity, and Jonglei states.

“China’s generosity comes at a crucial moment when we must support people who are on the brink of a hunger calamity in remote parts of the conflict-affected states,” said Joyce Luma, WFP Country Director in South Sudan, in a statement.

“We are working around the clock with our partners to save lives, and this support from China helps address a critical need.”

The agency says it will use the funds provided to purchase cereals, oil and salt to help meet the immediate food needs of vulnerable people.

The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis estimates that 3.9 million people face acute hunger in South Sudan between October and December.

It includes about 30,000 people who are facing starvation in parts of Unity State.