The World Health Organization (WHO) celebrated its 75th anniversary on Monday at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), with the theme “Painting a healthier and safer future together,” according to a WHO release.
The gathering provided an opportunity for fresh pledges to the common aim of “Health for All by All.”
The WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean organized the event at the GEM, which was attended by a diverse audience that included senior officials from the host country, Egypt, members of the diplomatic corps, United Nations entities, donor agencies, the WHO Foundation, and various non-governmental organizations.
Acknowledging Egypt’s “gracious hosting” of the WHO Regional Office since 1949, a special WHO75 award of gratitude was presented to Egypt, represented by Mohamed Awad Tag El-Din, Egyptian presidential advisor for health affairs, and Amr Kandil, assistant minister of health and population.
Welcoming the guests, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Ahmed Al-Mandhari emphasized the importance of continuity, solidarity, and unity to achieve global health objectives.
“As we commemorate 75 years of work to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable, we need to continue to work together to realize a future in which the right to health is a given,” he said.
The event showcased a selection of children’s artworks inspired by WHO75 from various countries in the region, underscoring the organization’s commitment to engaging communities.
Attendees also had the opportunity to view photographs reflecting WHO’s impactful work, particularly in emergency settings.
Moreover, a special session on universal health coverage provided insights into the 45-year journey of primary health care in the Eastern Mediterranean region, led by senior experts from WHO headquarters and the regional office.
The event also paid tribute to all WHO Regional Directors for the Eastern Mediterranean since 1949, acknowledging their significant contributions to public health.
Closing the evening, Hanan Balkhy, the elected regional director, highlighted the need to safeguard healthcare, making it more accessible and affordable, especially in emergencies and for those in hard-to-reach areas.
Balkhy expressed optimism about replicating success stories across the region, citing Egypt’s recent achievement of WHO Gold Tier status on the path to eliminating Hepatitis C.
