The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has refuted claims that a UAE field hospital in Chad is being misused. A recent news report alleged that the hospital in the Chadian city of Amdjarass was "being used for activities other than humanitarian work," a charge the ERC vehemently denied as false and unfounded.
"It is troubling that the humanitarian and charitable endeavors of the ERC could be subjected to false allegations or politicized in such a manner," the organization stated in a release issued on Saturday. The media report, the ERC noted, did not provide any evidence to support its accusation—"because no such evidence exists."
The ERC also dismissed claims that it had denied access to the Amdjarass facility to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). "We will collaborate with the IFRC to ascertain how such entry could have been prevented, as access to the hospital area is under the jurisdiction of the local authorities in the host country," it said.
Established in July 2023, the Amdjarass facility has been aiding vulnerable populations, including Sudanese refugees. It was set up shortly after the crisis in Sudan began in April 2023, following offers to establish a field hospital in Sudanese territory that were declined.
The hospital has treated 8,808 Sudanese and 19,658 Chadians, in addition to performing 550 surgeries, according to the ERC. Here are some photos of the facility, taken in 2023, showcasing its operations:
"In managing the Amdjarass facility, the ERC's sole focus continues to be on providing essential medical care in these challenging conditions to the most urgent cases," it added. The organization characterized the allegations as "reckless and harmful" and warned that they put "the safety of humanitarian personnel at risk."
"Allegations of this nature jeopardize our capacity to effectively deliver vital aid to those in need," it added. In addition to the Amdjarass facility, the ERC has established another field hospital in Abéché, which has treated 21,761 patients.
"These UAE field hospitals are a crucial lifeline for civilians in need, offering treatment to Sudanese refugees fleeing the conflict, as well as Chadian residents. Our services are provided to all civilians in need, irrespective of nationality, age, gender, or political affiliation," the statement concluded.
