Dubai: Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Humanitarian has airlifted 20 metric tonnes of critical medical supplies from the World Health Organization's (WHO) prepositioned stocks to support efforts to combat the outbreak of a new Ebola virus strain in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), via Uganda. The shipment departed from Al Maktoum International - Dubai World Central (DWC) and is expected to support hundreds of patients over a four-week period, while also assisting approximately 280 healthcare facilities.
According to Emirates News Agency, the cargo includes multipurpose tents, disinfectants, personal protective equipment, thermometers, and other essential medical supplies required to strengthen efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak and support frontline healthcare workers in affected areas. Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, stated that as Ebola cases continue to spread, Dubai Humanitarian is facilitating the transport of life-saving aid. The organization is prepared to maintain this air bridge with the help of Dubai Humanitarian's Global Humanitarian Impact Fund and Dubai Royal Air Wing.
Saba emphasized the importance of coordinating closely with humanitarian partners, including the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), to ensure a sustainable response. The aim is to ensure that essential medicines and relief supplies reach the communities in need, while supporting health systems under strain.
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, expressed gratitude to Dubai Humanitarian and the Government of the United Arab Emirates for their partnership in supporting health emergency response efforts globally. Dr. Balkhy highlighted the importance of rapid action and international solidarity during times of heightened alert following the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
The airlift is a demonstration of how strategic partnerships can deliver critical support where needed most. The supplies will enable frontline health workers to detect, contain, and respond to Ebola cases quickly, while ensuring their own protection as they care for affected communities. Dubai Humanitarian has previously supported UN agencies and international humanitarian organizations in delivering medical supplies and relief aid to Ebola-affected regions in West Africa between 2014 and 2016.