UAE allocates $10 million to fight Ebola outbreak in Africa

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed the allocation of $10 million to support international efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak in Africa and strengthen healthcare systems in affected areas.

The funding was announced during an international meeting convened by the United States on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

The UAE Aid Agency said the country has already sent more than 150 tonnes of aid and supplies to areas affected by the outbreak.

The assistance has included protective equipment and infection-control materials benefiting around 280 health facilities, as well as food and shelter supplies for affected communities.

Dr Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, said international efforts need to be accelerated to limit the spread of the disease and strengthen healthcare systems' ability to prevent, detect and respond to outbreaks.

He said the UAE would continue working with governments, international organisations and regional institutions to address health emergencies.

The latest efforts come amid the continuing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and concerns over its widening geographical spread.