Dubai: Dubai Humanitarian (DXBH) facilitated a third humanitarian airlift in support of the Ebola outbreak response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. This was in close coordination with the European Commission's Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO).
According to Bahrain News Agency, the relief flight departed from Dubai and landed at Entebbe, Uganda, carrying 76.2 metric tonnes of critical humanitarian supplies for onward delivery to affected communities in the Congo. Transported aboard a Dubai Royal Air Wing aircraft, the cargo included hygiene kits, fortified biscuits, tents, two vehicles, and supplies supporting safe and dignified burials. The items were mobilised by members of the Dubai Humanitarian community, including the World Food Programme's United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot (WFP-UNHRD), UNICEF, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
The total value of the humanitarian cargo amounted to $223,150, while the air transport was provided by Dubai Humanitarian, with an estimated logistics cost of $270,000.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, said that the operation reflects the commitment of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates and the continued support of the Government of Dubai in enabling rapid humanitarian action during times of crisis, in coordination with the European Union and partner organisations. It also highlights the ongoing role of Dubai Humanitarian in supporting international humanitarian efforts through its logistics capabilities, coordination mechanisms, and collaborative platform, ensuring timely assistance during complex emergencies such as the current Ebola response.