Emirates Red Crescent to send four planeloads of aid to Somalia

Emirates Red Crescent will send four planeloads of aid to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Somalia.

The East African country is suffering from a prolonged and severe drought.

The UN estimated 2.7 million Somalis could face severe food shortages over the next few months.

The ERC opened an air bridge to the country and will send four planes carrying hundreds of tonnes of basic food and other humanitarian aid.

Two aircraft have already landed and the remaining flights will depart this week.

ERC officials also established a food aid distribution process before the start of Ramadan to benefit people in Jubaland, Puntland and Somaliland.

The initiative is as part of the UAE’s larger relief and development projects in the country.

Dr Mohammed Al Falahi, secretary general of the ERC, said it was making every effort to alleviate the crisis in Somalia.

Apart from the drought, Somalia has been wracked by years of conflict and political instability.

Al Shabab militants carry out frequent attacks, while authorities are also tackling the Covid-19 pandemic.

The UAE sent medical supplies to Somalia to bolster its fight against the coronavirus.

UAE send medical supplies to Somalia - in pictures

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The UAE has sent crucial medical supplies to Somalia. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court