At the directive of the President, UAE pledges $10 million to tackle Ebola outbreak in Africa

At the directive of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates has pledged $10 million to combat the Ebola outbreak in Africa and bolster healthcare systems in affected regions. This commitment was made during an international meeting convened by the United States at the United Nations General Assembly, alongside discussions on the Ebola crisis and strategies to enhance global response efforts.

Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, emphasized the UAE's ongoing role in supporting international initiatives to tackle crises, disasters, and health challenges worldwide. He stated that this decision reflects the UAE's humanitarian mission and its global responsibility to shield communities from disease risks and epidemics, in collaboration with governments, international organizations, and regional bodies.

Since the outbreak's emergence, the UAE has extended over 150 tonnes of aid and supplies to affected areas. These provisions encompass protective gear, infection-control materials, shelters, and food for impacted individuals. Notably, UAE has facilitated the delivery of these resources to approximately 280 healthcare facilities.

Al Ameri stressed the critical importance of a united international response to curb the disease's spread and transmission among communities. He highlighted the necessity of bolstering health systems, enhancing their ability to prevent, detect early signs, and respond effectively to outbreaks. These actions are particularly urgent amid the ongoing Ebola crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with its expanding geographic reach.

The situation underscores the need for intensified international coordination and swift action to contain the outbreak and mitigate its humanitarian and health repercussions.