Dubai Humanitarian has transported 20 metric tonnes of critical Ebola aid to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, helping strengthen healthcare facilities and frontline response efforts during the outbreak.
DUBAI: Dubai Humanitarian has launched a major humanitarian airlift carrying essential medical supplies to support efforts to contain an Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The operation was carried out under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The shipment, organised in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), departed from Al Maktoum International Airport and transported 20 metric tonnes of emergency medical supplies from WHO’s prepositioned stocks. The aid is being delivered through Uganda and is expected to support hundreds of patients over a four-week period while assisting approximately 280 healthcare facilities.
The cargo includes multipurpose tents, disinfectants, personal protective equipment, thermometers and other vital materials required to strengthen disease control measures and protect frontline medical workers. The mission was supported through Dubai Humanitarian’s Global Humanitarian Impact Fund and the Dubai Royal Air Wing.
The Dubai Humanitarian airlift reflects the emirate’s continuing role as a global hub for emergency relief and humanitarian logistics. Officials said the initiative comes at a time when humanitarian organisations are facing mounting pressure from funding constraints and disruptions to international supply chains.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, said the organisation remains committed to supporting the international humanitarian community and ensuring life-saving assistance reaches affected populations quickly. He noted that close coordination with humanitarian partners and international agencies remains essential for sustaining relief efforts.
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy welcomed the support, describing rapid action and international cooperation as critical during health emergencies. She said the supplies would help healthcare workers detect, contain and respond to Ebola cases more effectively while safeguarding those delivering care.
Dubai Humanitarian previously played a significant role during the West African Ebola crisis between 2014 and 2016, serving as a logistics platform for UN agencies and international relief organisations delivering emergency aid.
