Milestone for life-saving supplies
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has delivered crucial nutrition supplies to malnourished children in Farafangana (Madagascar) using an unmanned aircraft system (UAS). This marks a milestone in reaching remote communities with essential aid.
Communities in the region often wait weeks for assistance, as roads and bridges are damaged by droughts and cyclones. Previously, food drops landed far from villages, requiring long and difficult journeys.
With UAS, WFP can now deliver up to 160 kg per drop directly to affected areas, reducing delays and improving access. More deliveries are planned in the coming months.
“This operation can transform humanitarian aid,” said WFP assistant executive director Rania Dagash-Kamara. WFP works with the local communities to ensure safe distribution and aims to expand this approach globally to enhance emergency response efforts. (ah)