WHD: Regional Director marks the conclusion of WHO’s Anniversary Celebrations
By Edward Samuel, Abuja
In a momentous speech on World Health Day, April 7, 2024, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has reflected on the culmination of a year-long celebration marking the 75th Anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dr. Moeti expressed gratitude to Member States, partners, and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout the commemoration period, which was filled with both festivities and sober reflections.
“The theme for World Health Day 2024, “My Health, My Right,” resonated deeply as it encapsulated the journey of advancing health rights within the region over the past 75 years”. She said.
Dr. Moeti highlighted the progress made in improving health outcomes, particularly for mothers and children, citing statistics that demonstrate significant reductions in maternal mortality and child mortality rates, as well as an increase in life expectancy among African women.
“One of the major achievements celebrated was the decline in new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths, alongside reductions in tuberculosis fatalities”, She explained.
Dr. Moeti also underscored ongoing efforts to eradicate diseases such as polio, guinea worm disease, and maternal and neonatal tetanus, emphasizing the importance of collective action and cooperation in public health initiatives.
Central to Dr. Moeti’s message on World Health Day 2024 was the imperative of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as a fundamental right for all individuals. She commended Member States for their strides in reforming health policies and implementing schemes to mitigate financial barriers to healthcare access, such as National Health Insurance Schemes (NHIS) and Social Health Insurance (SHI) programs.
However, Dr. Moeti acknowledged persistent challenges, including health disparities among vulnerable populations and obstacles to accessing essential health services.
“These challenges are exacerbated by ongoing crises such as conflicts, climate change, and epidemics, underscoring the urgent need for sustained action and solidarity”, She said.
Looking ahead, Dr. Moeti urged Member States to reaffirm their commitment to the right to health, as enshrined in the WHO Constitution, and to scale up efforts to strengthen health systems.
She called on all stakeholders to collaborate in advancing the universal coverage of high-quality healthcare, emphasizing that health is a universal human right that transcends boundaries of race, gender, and socioeconomic status.
“As the world commemorates World Health Day 2024 and bids farewell to WHO’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, this message serves as a reminder of the progress made, the challenges ahead, and the collective responsibility to ensure health equity and well-being for all”, She added.
