India on Tuesday delivered critical medical aid to Uganda in response to the Ebola virus outbreak, utilizing the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. The Indian Air Force shared visuals of the mission on X, highlighting how the operation demonstrates its rapid response capabilities during humanitarian contingencies.
Details of the Airlift Mission
The Indian Air Force stated, "An IAF C-17 Globemaster-III airlifted critical medical aid from New Delhi to Uganda on 02 Jun 26 to combat the Ebola virus outbreak." The mission underscores the Indian Air Force's preparedness to respond to humanitarian crises worldwide.
India's Urgent Medical Assistance
India extended urgent medical assistance to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) following a request from the African Union Commission. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that India's support is tailored to meet Africa CDC's needs to contain the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa and strengthen public health preparedness.
As an urgent response, the first tranche of about 2.5 tons of medical supplies was dispatched on May 24 to Kampala, Uganda. This included protective gear, medical monitoring equipment, essential medicines, and supplements. After receiving a more detailed list of requirements from Africa CDC, the MEA mobilized a larger second tranche of 43 tons, comprising protective gear, diagnostic and monitoring devices, sample transport kits, infection prevention supplies, medicines, and supplements. The second tranche arrived in Kampala on June 2, 2026, and was handed over to Africa CDC.
Commitment to African Partnership
The MEA emphasized that India's support reflects its enduring commitment to partnership with African countries, including in public health emergencies. "Our Missions in Addis Ababa and Kampala remain closely engaged with the African Union Commission and the Africa CDC for supporting their Ebola response efforts," the statement noted.
Africa CDC's Acknowledgment
On Monday, Africa CDC welcomed the emergency diagnostics, therapeutics, and medical supplies provided by India to support Ebola response efforts in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In a post on X, Africa CDC stated, "The supplies were delivered through Africa CDC's Eastern Regional Coordinating Centre in Uganda and mobilised to support response efforts in eastern DRC." The agency noted that the assistance would strengthen ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak and support affected communities, expressing appreciation for India's solidarity.
Continued Support
New Delhi reiterated that it remains in close contact with African health authorities and stands ready to deploy subsequent tranches of medical and logistical assistance as the situation evolves. Africa CDC, the public health agency of the African Union, plays a key role in coordinating disease prevention and emergency response across the continent.
