YANQUL: The Ministry of Health celebrated the World Health Organization's designation of Yanqul, Al Dhahirah Governorate, as a 'Healthy City'.
This achievement brings to 8 the total number of internationally recognised ‘Healthy Cities’ in the Sultanate of Oman. It reflects Oman’s ongoing commitment to promoting public health, improving the quality of life and advancing sustainable development.
A ceremony to this effect was held under the auspices of Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, in the presence of Tahir bin Mabkhout al Junaibi, Governor of Al Dhahirah, members of the Majlis Ash’shura, walis and other officials.
Yanqul is the first ‘Healthy City’ to be accredited with this designation in Al Dhahirah Governorate.
Its recognition constitutes part of a broader expansion of the ‘Healthy Cities’ programme in Oman — an initiative based on fostering community engagement and concerted efforts undertaken by different sectors to furnish a healthy and sustainable environment.
In a speech at the ceremony, Dr Ahmed bin Said al Kalbani, Director-General of Health Services in Al Dhahirah Governorate, said, “This accomplishment has been the outcome of collaborative action that embodies a vision of health as a collective social responsibility. It demonstrates a vision that extends well beyond healthcare institutions to encompass environmental factors relevant to healthy lifestyles through the enhancement of public awareness, with special emphasis on supporting the most vulnerable segments of society."
The recognition of Yanqul as an international 'Healthy City' marks the start of a new phase that requires the implementation of long-term sustainability of relevant programmes, the development of partnerships and the rigorous assessment of the impact of health initiatives, said Al Kalbani.
He expressed the hope that the experience of Yanqul will serve as a model to be emulated by other wilayats across the governorate.
Dr Asmus Hammerich, the World Health Organization Representative in the Sultanate of Oman, said that this accomplishment embodies the strong partnership between the Government of Oman and the WHO. He commended the collective efforts made to achieve this milestone by the Ministry of Health, Al Dhahirah Governorate, community institutions, volunteers and members of the public.
Dr Asmus pointed out that the 'Healthy Cities' programme is rooted in a comprehensive concept of health — one that extends beyond mere healthcare services to encompass social, economic and environmental dimensions through enhanced cross-sectoral integration.
To merit this recognition, the Wilayat of Yanqul has made significant progress since signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the WHO in September 2022, said Dr Asmus. He added that the Wilayat of Yanqul achieved this goal by fostering community engagement and enhancing cooperation among government entities, civil society organisations and volunteers.
Dr Asmus added that the 'Healthy City' certification follows a rigorous evaluation process based on meeting a specific set of criteria, including community participation, environmental health, education, social development, economic opportunities, and emergency preparedness. He underscored the importance of securing these gains, which, he observed, contribute to building a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient society.
The accreditation of the Wilayat of Yanqul as an international 'Healthy City ' follows the fulfilment of all WHO requirements and standards. The assessment covered various health-related initiatives and sustainable development projects implemented within the wilayat. The evaluation process focused on several key areas related to improving the health and the quality of life of the population. These included health, social, economic, and environmental aspects, in addition to the empowerment of private businesses operated by families (household businesses), the enhancement of safety and security, and the promotion of sustainable development projects.
The ceremony concluded with the handing over of the 'Healthy City' certificate to Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed al Busaidi, Wali of Yanqul. - ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
