July 19, 2024
3 mins read

UAE launches global initiative to address critical healthcare gaps

The programme reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to global health equity and international cooperation…reports Asian Lite News

The UAE has unveiled an ambitious programme aimed at bridging critical healthcare gaps worldwide as part of the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, announced in March of this year by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. With a substantial financial investment of approximately US$150 million (AED550 million) over the next decade, the UAE Global Hospitals Programme will oversee the construction of up to 10 hospitals, each tailored to meet the specific healthcare needs of underserved communities, enhancing the health of those least likely to access medical care.

The UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases, currently under construction in Surakarta, Central Java, will be the first facility to be inaugurated. Expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2024, the launch of this hospital will mark a significant milestone in the UAE Global Hospitals Programme overseen by the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, providing vital services to thousands of heart disease patients.

The programme reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to global health equity and international cooperation. It represents a significant investment in supporting global health under the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, which will support institutions and projects working to deliver aid, address inequality, and advance sustainable development solutions.

H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chair of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, said, “Under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we are honoured to reinforce our dedication to the UAE’s enduring mission of improving global health. Over the coming decade, this initiative will drive meaningful change, embodying our commitment to assisting the underserved and enhancing the wellbeing and dignity of communities worldwide.”

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State and Chair of the International Health Advisory Committee at the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, said, “The hospitals established through this initiative will bolster healthcare systems, equipping them to bridge crucial health access gaps effectively. The UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases will not only deliver specialised medical services but also stand as a model for future projects within this programme.”

Heart diseases are a leading cause of death and disability in Indonesia, with ischemic heart disease and stroke particularly prevalent. The burden of these diseases has risen significantly due to lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and an ageing population. Despite the expansion of healthcare coverage through national insurance programmes, the healthcare system struggles to effectively manage the rising incidence of heart diseases. Furthermore, access to healthcare facilities remains uneven, particularly in rural and remote areas in Indonesia. While there are some healthcare facilities available in Surakarta, overall access to specialised and high-quality healthcare services is limited compared to larger urban centres. With this new facility, the programme aims to improve specialised healthcare access and alleviate the overall disease burden.

Continuing the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s inspiring vision and generosity, the UAE is considered one of the world’s most generous donor countries. Latest figures show the UAE has contributed over $87 billion (AED320 billion) in foreign assistance since the country’s founding. This commitment to global philanthropy is deeply rooted in the UAE’s history and values, reflecting the nation’s dedication to fostering international cooperation and solidarity.

ALSO READ: UAE, Indonesia ink deals to bolster ties

Previous Story

Yas Island’s eco-friendly city earns top urban design rating

Next Story

Arab League condemns Israeli rejection of Palestinian state

Latest from -Top News

Trump unhappy with deadly strikes on Kyiv 

The president said he is “putting a lot of pressure” on both sides to end the war in Ukraine, following the deadliest attacks Kyiv has seen since last July  President Donald Trump

Macron: ‘We Stand with India’

Macron said that France will stand together with its allies and would continue the fight against terrorism wherever necessary….reports Asian Lite News French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday spoke to Prime Minister

Pakistan Slams IWT Move as ‘Act of War’

Islamabad also said that India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) will be considered as an “act of war”…reports Asian Lite News The high-level emergency meeting of Pakistan’s National Security

Modi: We’ll Hunt Them Down

The Prime Minister thanked nations that extended support to India in the aftermath of the terror attack…reports Asian Lite News In his first address after the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Al Jaber stresses on GCC cooperation to boost industrial performance

The minister pointed out that the Covid-19 pandemic accelerated efforts

UAE, Egypt elevate diplomatic ties

The UAE welcomed the agreement between Egypt and Turkey to