UAE steps up relief efforts in Socotra

abu dhabi — The United Arab Emirates is escalating its assistance to the people of Socotra island during the holy month of Ramadan as an extension of its leading humanitarian role in Yemen in general, and in Socotra in particular.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has so far sent three ships loaded with 538 tonnes of basic food items to Socotra in line with the instructions of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the ERC.

Sheikh Hamdan has ordered the immediate provision of Ramadan requirements to the island people besides launching other services through Ramadan programmes including iftar projects, distribution of Ramadan rations and Eid supplies.

The first ship, carrying 538 tonnes of items, valued at Dh7 million, arrived at Socotra Port earlier this week. In the coming two days, two more ships will leave for Socotra carrying Ramadan aid supplies which will benefit a large number of people.

The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation has also launched a Ramadan project that aims to provide 10,000 food parcels to the residents of Socotra through a maritime and aerial bridge, which will benefit over 50,000 people. The food aid, which includes flour, sugar, rice, oil, tomato paste, olive oil, tea, lentils and powdered milk, will be distributed in all governorates of the island.

Many local authorities, leaders, sheikhs and heads of organsiations have lauded the efforts of the UAE leadership to help residents, saying this aid will help people pass through difficult situation caused by the harsh economic conditions of the country. — Wam