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 -
The mission, carried out with the World Health Organisation, delivered seven tonnes of aid from the UAE and 20 tonnes from the WHO. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
The supplies will support around 27,000 healthcare workers in the African nation. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
Between 2010 until March 2020, the UAE has sent aid worth Dh1.2 billion to Somalia. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
Boxes of medical supplies being loaded on to the plane. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
Somalia has reported 60 confirmed cases so far and two deaths. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
UAE has sent medical supplies to countries in need. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court -
Several indices rank Somalia among the most vulnerable to a global health emergency. Courtesy - Crown Prince Court
