Oman's Ministry of Health held a festival on Wednesday to celebrate the World Health Organization's (WHO) announcement of Yanqil (Al Dhahirah Governorate) as a healthy city.
New Achievement in Promoting Public Health
This achievement brings the number of international healthy cities in the Sultanate of Oman to eight and demonstrates Oman's ongoing commitment to promoting public health, improving quality of life, and advancing sustainable development.
The ceremony was held under the patronage of Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al-Sabti, Minister of Health, and attended by Sheikh Tahir bin Mebkhoot Al-Junaibi, Governor of Al Dhahirah, members of the Shura Council, governors, and other officials.
Development of Sustainable Programs and Community Collaborations
Yanqil has achieved this title as the first healthy city in Al Dhahirah Governorate. This recognition is part of the expansion of the healthy cities program in the Sultanate of Oman, which is based on promoting social participation and collaborative efforts among various sectors to provide a healthy and sustainable environment.
In his speech at the ceremony, Dr. Ahmed bin Said Al-Kalbani, Director General of Health Services in Al Dhahirah, said: "This success is the result of collective action that embodies the vision of health as a collective social responsibility. This vision looks beyond health institutions and includes environmental factors related to a healthy lifestyle through increased public awareness."
He also expressed hope that Yanqil's experience would serve as a model for other governorates at the provincial level.
Dr. Asmus Hammerch, WHO representative in the Sultanate of Oman, also referred to this success, stating that this achievement represents strong collaboration between the Omani government and the World Health Organization. He praised the collective efforts of the Ministry of Health, Al Dhahirah Governorate, social institutions, volunteers, and community members in achieving this success.
Dr. Asmus added that the healthy cities program is based on a comprehensive concept of health that goes beyond mere health services and encompasses social, economic, and environmental dimensions.
Yanqil has made significant progress since signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Health Organization in September 2022. The city has achieved this goal by promoting social participation and strengthening collaboration among government entities, civil society organizations, and volunteers.
The healthy city certificate is awarded after a thorough evaluation process based on specific criteria, including community participation, environmental health, education, social development, and economic opportunities. Dr. Asmus emphasized the importance of maintaining these achievements, stating that they contribute to building a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient community.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the healthy city certificate to Sheikh Dr. Ali bin Mohammed Al-Busaidi, Wali of Yanqil.
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