The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has donated relief items valued at over GHS 12 million to Ghana, directly supporting communities and families affected by the severe June 29 floods. This significant contribution includes essential supplies such as food, drinking water, blankets, and sleeping mattresses.
The donation was formally presented at the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) headquarters in Accra. A symbolic presentation was also made to flood-affected victims in the Circle enclave, demonstrating the immediate impact of this humanitarian aid. The relief items are currently being packaged for distribution to the most affected areas.
This intervention follows the Ghanaian government's appeal for international support after the June 29 floods displaced nearly 90,000 people, affected close to 80,000 households, and tragically claimed about 34 lives. The UAE's response was guided by a Rapid Needs Assessment, conducted with NADMO and other humanitarian partners, which identified food assistance as the highest priority for 93 percent of affected communities. Blankets, mattresses, and safe drinking water were also identified as urgent needs.
Mr. Seidu Issifu, Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability at the Office of the President, confirmed that President John Dramani Mahama approved the Climate Emergency Resource Mobilisation Track to secure international partnerships for relief and long-term climate resilience. Mr. Issifu described the UAE's response as a remarkable demonstration of the enduring friendship between Ghana and the UAE. He noted that the UAE has consistently supported Ghana through investments, development operations, and humanitarian assistance.
The relief effort is part of the broader Ghana-UAE partnership, aiming to bolster the government's response to flood-affected communities. Crucially, all relief items, including 13,000 food boxes, 20,000 rice packages, 10,000 cartons of bottled water, over 8,000 blankets, and more than 5,000 sleeping mattresses, were procured within Ghana. This local procurement strategy supports Ghanaian businesses and provides a boost to the national economy.
Mr. Rashid Salem Al Shamsi, Executive Director of Operations at the UAE Aid Agency, emphasized the UAE's belief in unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility during times of need. He stated that the UAE stands with Ghana to support national efforts in assisting affected individuals and facilitating their recovery. Dr. Abdulla Al Mandoos, the UAE Ambassador to Ghana, reiterated his country's commitment to supporting Ghanaian communities. He highlighted that the true strength of any partnership is revealed in moments of hardship.
Mr. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, Deputy Minister for the Interior, described the donation as a generous gesture of friendship. He stressed that humanitarian assistance is not just about relief items but also about restoring hope and dignity to those affected by unfortunate circumstances. Mr. Terlabi assured that the government and NADMO would ensure proper management and delivery of the relief items to the most vulnerable communities. He also called on other international partners to support Ghana, emphasizing that climate change requires collaborative global efforts.
The immediate implication of this donation is the provision of critical aid to thousands of Ghanaians in dire need. It also strengthens diplomatic ties between Ghana and the UAE, potentially opening doors for future collaborations in development and climate resilience. Decision-makers will be watching how efficiently these resources are distributed and the long-term impact on affected communities. This partnership sets a precedent for international cooperation in addressing climate-induced disasters.