WHO EMRO | WHO Regional Director Concludes Visit to Address Health Issues
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, recently wrapped up a productive three-day visit to Tunisia from April 13 to 16, 2025. During her stay, Dr. Balkhy engaged in discussions with key government officials, including the Minister of Health, Dr. Mustafa Ferjani, focusing on critical health issues such as drug addiction, workforce migration, and vaccine strategies. This visit underscored the World Health Organization’s commitment to enhancing health system resilience and equity in Tunisia.
Strengthening Health Partnerships
Dr. Balkhy’s discussions with Health Minister Dr. Mustafa Ferjani centered on addressing the social determinants of health that impact the Tunisian population. They explored strategies to tackle pressing issues like drug addiction and the migration of healthcare professionals, which have significant implications for the country’s health system. The dialogue also included plans for addressing medicine shortages and enhancing vaccination efforts. Dr. Balkhy reaffirmed WHO’s dedication to supporting Tunisia’s health priorities, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals.
In a separate meeting with H.E. Mr. Mohamed Ali Nafti, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, Dr. Balkhy highlighted the need for multilateral cooperation. This partnership aims to build on the existing strong ties between WHO and Tunisia, fostering a collaborative approach to health challenges. Dr. Balkhy acknowledged Tunisia’s notable advancements in health system strengthening and innovation, particularly in areas such as antimicrobial resistance and emergency coordination.
Innovative Health Initiatives
Throughout her visit, Dr. Balkhy recognized Tunisia’s efforts to promote health innovation across various sectors. She commended the country’s initiatives to combat antimicrobial resistance and enhance emergency response capabilities. Furthermore, she noted the importance of local medicine production and community empowerment in advancing health outcomes. Dr. Balkhy advocated for the adoption of the Health in All Policies (HIAP) approach, which has proven effective in numerous countries, to further support Tunisia’s journey toward universal health coverage and sustainable development.
Dr. Balkhy’s itinerary included visits to several key health facilities, such as the Mother and Children Protection Centre and the Pasteur Institute. At these locations, she engaged in discussions about community engagement and health initiatives. Her visit to the National Health Assessment and Accreditation Centre (INEAS) further highlighted the importance of quality assurance in health services. Additionally, she met with beneficiaries of Tunisia’s movable cinema for health project, showcasing innovative ways to promote health education and awareness.
Continued Collaboration and Future Goals
During her stay, Dr. Balkhy also met with Mr. Ibrahim Saad Ibrahim, the Saudi Ambassador to Tunisia, to discuss potential collaborations in health initiatives. This meeting reflects the broader commitment to fostering international partnerships that can enhance health outcomes in Tunisia and the region. Dr. Balkhy’s visit not only reinforced WHO’s support for Tunisia’s health priorities but also aimed to strengthen the collaborative framework necessary for addressing complex health challenges.
As Tunisia continues to navigate its health landscape, Dr. Balkhy’s visit serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation in achieving health equity and resilience. The discussions and initiatives launched during this trip are expected to contribute significantly to Tunisia’s health system, paving the way for improved health outcomes for its citizens. The WHO remains committed to supporting Tunisia in its pursuit of comprehensive health solutions that address both current and future challenges.
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