The Chinese billionaire’s foundation sent the third massive package of the medical supplies to Africa. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have received the humanitarian aid from Jack Ma and Alibaba foundations on Monday.
In support of Africa’s fight against the spread of the novel virus, Jack Ma foundation sent another cargo flight loaded with medical supplies and protective equipment.
On Monday, the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa authorities have reported on successful receiving of the Chinese aid through an Ethiopian Airlines, china.org reports.
In fact, the third-round donation to Africa from the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation mainly includes:
- 4.6 million masks,
- 500,000 swabs and test kits,
- 300 ventilators,
- 200,000 sets of protective clothing,
- 200,000 face shields,
- 2,000 temperature guns,
- 100 body temperature scanners, and
- 500,000 pairs of gloves.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed promised that the donation is expected to come in more batches in the coming days. The top health official also expressed his appreciation to the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation on Twitter for “continuing to show solidarity with Africa.”
“The world cannot afford the unthinkable consequences of a COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. The crisis is proving to be more difficult and longer lasting than any of us had expected. We must make every effort to get prepared,” said Jack Ma, Founder of Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Group, in a statement.
Jack Ma commented on the humanitarian activity, saying that as members of the global community, it would be irresponsible just to fail to act. “We need to take action now,” Jack Ma added.
Jack Ma Foundation continues its support to the vulnerable countries
Over the months of the COVID-19, the Jack Ma Foundation is also collaborating with Africa CDC to hold a special webinar entitled “Global MediXChange for Combating COVID-19 (GMCC): The Experience of China” on April 28.
The GMCC platform aimed at knowledge sharing and online communication to combat the novel pathogen. For thousands of medical staff from African countries, the webinar became a great opportunity to participate in its live exchange sessions.
“These vital supplies will enhance the Africa CDC’s strategic stockpile to assist member states in the COVID-19 fight,” African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said.
On Tuesday, the Africa CDC disclosed that the death toll from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on the African continent reached 1,423 as the number of confirmed cases hit 31,933 as of early Tuesday.
