Addis Ababa Oct 24/2014 Ethiopia has decided to send 210 volunteer health experts to West African countries hit by Ebola, Ministry of Health announced.
The government will also donate 10 million birr to the countries.
Health Minister Dr. Kesetebirhan Admassu told journalists today that Ebola virus which surfaced in the region ten months ago has spread alarmingly in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone,and is now a threat to the world.
Therefore the government of Ethiopia has decided to send 210 volunteer health experts in two batches to the countries by taking into consideration their limited capacity and input, the minister elaborated.
According to Dr. Kesetebirhan, the team of the volunteers would consist of medical doctors, nurses and field epidemiologists.
The team will provide treatment, quarantine and support the infected, and create awareness among the communities.
AU Commissioner for Social Affairs, Dr. Mustapha Sidiki Kaloko, on his part said the assistance is not only of paramount importance to the West African countries in stopping the spread of the disease but also an exemplary act that inspires other countries.
This is an act that that makes both Ethiopia and the African Union proud, the commissioner added.
World Health Organization (WHO) Representative, Dr. Pierre Mpele, said this is a big sacrifice made to rescue the international community from the hovering threat of Ebola and it strengthens African unity and cooperation.
By taking this step Ethiopia has not only shown that it is the seat of the African Union but also a decisive country, he noted.