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.