Following the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Humanitarian (DXB-H) has expedited the delivery of emergency aid to N'Djamena, Chad, aimed at assisting over 70,000 Sudanese individuals. This initiative is designed to alleviate their distress and protect lives in the area.
In a rapid reaction to the intensifying humanitarian emergency, a Boeing 747 cargo aircraft took off from Al Maktoum International Airport on August 31 at 9:00 am, carrying 90 metric tons of vital medical supplies, shelter materials, and relief goods. These supplies were provided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and are intended to support over 70,000 Sudanese people, mitigating their suffering and preserving lives in the region.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, emphasized: "During these crucial times, the swiftness of our response can be the deciding factor between life and death. Our capacity to mobilize and deliver aid rapidly is a reflection of the robust partnerships and steadfast support from Dubai's leadership. This airlift to Chad underscores our continuous commitment to aiding vulnerable communities globally."
In response to the escalating crisis in Sudan, the World Health Organisation is dispatching 37 metric tons of life-saving infusions to provide immediate medical aid to thousands in need. Robert Blanchard, Emergency Operations Manager at WHO Global Logistics Hub, stated: "This charter flight, facilitated by Dubai Humanitarian, is crucial for overcoming logistical hurdles and represents significant support to WHO's ongoing health emergency response."
With the substantial support from Dubai Humanitarian, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is transporting 53 metric tons of essential supplies to address the severe humanitarian needs in Sudan. Benjamin Safari, Head of Supply Management Service at UNHCR, noted: "This airlift will enable UNHCR to support 68,000 people in the Darfur region, who are displaced due to severe floods and already suffering from famine."
The total cost of the relief operation, amounting to Dh1.48 million ($405,000), was entirely funded by Dubai Humanitarian's Global Humanitarian Impact Fund. This fund, established by DXB-H, is committed to supporting critical humanitarian missions from Dubai to various parts of the world.