UAE, WHO Launch Plan to Improve Health in Socotra

Photo: WAM

Reports show that the rate of Acute Malnutrition (GAM) in Socotra Island has reached 10.9%, and Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) is at 1.6% among children under five years old. Globally, a GAM rate between 10% and 14% is considered serious, and a SAM rate above 1% is alarming.

Mohamed Haji Al Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa Foundation, highlighted the UAE’s strong commitment to helping communities grow and improving important health services.

“This commitment comes from the lasting humanitarian values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the guidance of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. We want to tackle the food and health problems faced by women and children in Socotra, working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO),” he said.

Al Khouri explained that the Khalifa Foundation, linked to Erth Zayed Philanthropies, will team up with WHO to find the best solutions to nutrition and health problems using new survey data.

“The plan is to reduce deaths among mothers and children caused by malnutrition. This will be done through a two-year program that will improve care for mothers, babies, and young children, and make sure the island is ready to handle emergencies and disease outbreaks,” he added.

Dr. Ferima Coulibaly-Zerbo, Acting WHO Representative in Yemen, said, “This partnership shows our shared goal of building strong health systems in Yemen. Together with the UAE and local authorities, we are working to meet urgent health needs and build a healthier future for the people of Socotra.”

This initiative is part of joint efforts between the UAE and WHO to provide emergency food aid and stop the worsening of health and nutrition for many people in Yemen. It will improve healthcare on the island by training medical workers, supplying medicines, and setting up emergency response plans.

The program also focuses on long-term solutions to malnutrition, ensuring food security, raising awareness in the community, and improving disease tracking so health workers can respond quickly and effectively.