India Send Second Aid Shipment to Zambia Battles 'Cholera' Outbreak

Defense News ,India :- India has stepped up its support for Zambia in the face of a cholera outbreak by sending a second humanitarian aid shipment on Saturday.

The External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, announced that the aid, weighing around 3.5 tonnes, includes vital supplies such as water purification tools, chlorine tablets, and other essentials.

In a post on X, Minister Jaishankar stated, "India sends Humanitarian Assistance to Zambia in wake of the cholera outbreak. The aid weighing approx 3.5 tons comprises water purification supplies, chlorine tablets and ORS sachets. Was handed over today by our High Commissioner to the Government of Zambia."

This follows India's initial aid shipment on February 6, delivered via a commercial cargo aircraft. The first consignment, also weighing approximately 3.5 tonnes, included water purification supplies, chlorine tablets, and hydration in the form of ORS sachets, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Simultaneously, the European Union (EU) pledged Euro one million in support to Zambia to combat the cholera epidemic. This funding will assist UNICEF and the WHO in addressing immediate health, water, hygiene, and sanitation needs, as reported by the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).

As of January 31, 2024, Zambia reported a cumulative total of 16,526 cholera cases with 613 deaths, indicating a high fatality rate of nearly 4%. Lusaka Province witnessed the majority of cases and deaths.

With the rainy season expected to persist until May, there is concern that further floods in Lusaka's urban and peri-urban areas may reignite the spread of cholera. Cholera, a bacterial disease transmitted through contaminated water, leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration. India's continued aid efforts aim to mitigate the impact of the epidemic on Zambia's vulnerable population.