Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, the Minister of Health, emphasized that the Kuwait Vision 2035 and national development plans create a strategic framework. This framework challenges the Ministry of Health to provide high-quality healthcare to all sectors of society. In his speech at the opening of the second Kuwait Conference on Healthy Cities, he highlighted the ongoing efforts to expand the Healthy Cities initiative to all regions of Kuwait. The aim is to improve the well-being of citizens and residents alike.
Dr. Al-Awadhi pointed out that Kuwait is emerging as a regional leader in promoting healthy, sustainable cities. The country’s efforts in reducing pollution, increasing green spaces, and encouraging healthier lifestyles align with global initiatives to combat climate change. Dr. Hanan Al-Balkhi, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, praised Kuwait’s progress in fostering urban environments that enhance health, sustainability, and community resilience. She noted that 18 Kuwaiti cities are part of the WHO’s Healthy Cities regional network.
Furthermore, Dr. Fatima Al-Najjar, Assistant Undersecretary for Non-Governmental Medical Services Affairs, emphasized that the Ministry of Health’s community initiatives are based on scientific evidence. These initiatives aim to meet both developmental and health needs, aligning with the New Kuwait 2035 vision. Dr. Amal Al-Yahya, President of the Conference, also spoke about Kuwait’s commitment to the Healthy Cities initiative. This commitment has resulted in the registration of 18 cities, with seven meeting the World Health Organization’s criteria for healthy cities.
The conference emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration and community participation in achieving sustainable health development across the nation.
