UAE Colombia Earthquake Aid: UAE Sends $10 Million for Relief Efforts
The UAE Colombia earthquake aid package worth $10 million will support communities affected by a powerful earthquake that struck Colombia earlier this week, as rescue and relief teams continue working in damaged areas.
The UAE announced the emergency assistance on August 13 under the direction of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The support will be delivered through the UAE Aid Agency and is intended to help people who have lost homes, been injured or need urgent assistance following the disaster.
The earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, with reports putting its magnitude at 7.4. The disaster caused deaths, injuries and extensive damage, particularly around the Chocó region.
By Thursday, Colombian authorities had reported at least 265 deaths, while rescue teams were still searching damaged buildings for survivors.
What will the UAE aid provide?
The emergency package is expected to focus on basic needs as rescue operations continue and affected communities begin dealing with the damage. The assistance includes:
- Medical supplies for people injured in the earthquake
- Food supplies for affected families
- Shelter materials for people whose homes have been damaged or destroyed
- Other emergency relief items based on needs on the ground
- Support for early recovery and the restoration of basic stability
UAE teams are already working to speed up the delivery of assistance and coordinate the response according to conditions in affected areas.
UAE offers support after Colombia earthquake
The UAE’s response comes as countries and international organisations step in to help Colombia after the earthquake. The European Union has also announced €2 million in emergency support for affected communities.
Sheikh Mohamed also spoke with Colombia’s newly sworn-in President Abelardo de la Espriella, offering condolences for those who lost their lives and wishing a quick recovery to those injured.
For families affected by the disaster, the immediate priority remains finding survivors, providing medical care and ensuring people have access to food and safe shelter.
The UAE Colombia earthquake aid package is expected to support these urgent needs while also contributing to early recovery efforts as Colombia begins assessing the full impact of the disaster.
