Skip to main content

Bahrain's Northern Governorate Advances in WHO's Healthy Cities Initiative



Bahrain's Northern Governorate is making significant strides in public health by participating in the World Health Organization's (WHO) Healthy Cities Programme.  This initiative aims to enhance the health and well-being of communities through sustainable urban development and community engagement.  The governorate's efforts reflect a broader commitment to creating healthier environments for its residents. 


In November 2024, a delegation from WHO conducted a three-day mission to the Northern Governorate as part of the healthy city evaluation process.  The team, including representatives from the Ministry of Health and WHO's regional offices, visited various sites to assess the governorate's adherence to the programme's criteria.  These criteria encompass nine domains, such as community organization, environmental health, and emergency preparedness.  To be recognized, a healthy city must meet at least 80% of the 80 indicators set by WHO's Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean  .


Governor Ali bin Al Shaikh Abdulhussain Al Asfoor has been instrumental in steering the governorate towards this goal.  Under his leadership, initiatives like the mosquito control campaign and the "Bayoot Al Khair" project, which promotes social cohesion, have been implemented.  These programs align with the Healthy Cities Programme's objectives of improving environmental health and fostering community engagement  .


The governorate's commitment is further evidenced by its proactive approach in preparing for WHO's evaluation.  Officials organized field visits to showcase ongoing projects and engaged in self-assessment exercises to identify areas for improvement.  Such dedication underscores the governorate's determination to achieve the Healthy Governorate status, following the successful recognition of A’ali as a Healthy City in 2022  .


Bahrain's broader engagement with the Healthy Cities Programme is notable.  The country has seen multiple cities, including Manama and Busaiteen/Al-Sayah, receive Healthy City designations.  The expansion of the programme to entire governorates signifies a national commitment to public health and sustainable urban development  .


The Northern Governorate's efforts exemplify how local governance, community participation, and international collaboration can converge to promote health and well-being.  As the governorate continues its journey towards Healthy Governorate recognition, it sets a precedent for other regions aiming to enhance public health through comprehensive, community-centered approaches.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah: A Fusion of Heritage and Opulence

  The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah, known for its cultural and historical value, usher in a new age of opulent living. In the center of Diriyah, this partnership between the Diriyah Company and Marriott's Ritz-Carlton establishes a previously unheard-of benchmark for luxurious living. Inspired by the Najdi legacy, the houses offer occupants a distinctive and immersive cultural experience by skillfully fusing traditional charm with contemporary facilities. These villas prioritize well-being and create a pleasant environment for dynamic living. They are designed to adapt to varied tastes and lifestyles, with six unique layouts and a range of interior designs. Part of the Diriyah Company's ambitious development plan, The Ritz-Carlton Residences are located in the heart of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site including At-Turaif as its focal point. The objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 are perfectly aligned with this concept, which has over 20,000 residential units...
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE Introduces AI-Driven Drones for Crescent Moon Sighting

  For the first time in history, the UAE is employing artificial intelligence-powered drones to sight the crescent moon, signaling the start of Ramadan. This modernized approach blends technology with Islamic tradition, enhancing the reliability of moon sighting methods. Historically, the crescent moon has been identified through naked-eye sightings and advanced astronomical calculations. By incorporating AI-supported drones, the UAE is reinforcing its position as a leader in technological innovation while maintaining deep respect for religious customs. This method is backed by national research centers and astronomical observatories, ensuring precision and credibility in determining the start of Ramadan. Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, marked by fasting from dawn to dusk. Suhoor, the early morning meal, and Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, hold great importance during this period. The holy month is also a time of increased charitable giving, with many Muslims part...
Post a Comment
Read more