Minister of Public Health Affirms Qatar's Keenness on Advancing Health System

HE Minister of Public Health, Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari

Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Public Health in Qatar, affirmed the nation's commitment to advancing the healthcare system and improving primary care services. Over the past decade, there has been a focused effort on developing healthcare infrastructure and enhancing preventive and early intervention programs.

Dr. Al Kuwari, addressing a high-level panel discussion during the launch of the Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative, acknowledged the unwavering support from HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Qatar's health sector. She highlighted the well-organized and globally recognized network of primary healthcare services as an exemplary model.

Dr. Al Kuwari emphasized the readiness of the health sector to support low- and middle-income countries through state programs, fostering partnerships, knowledge exchange, and training. Despite significant improvements, she acknowledged that access to primary healthcare remains challenging in some countries due to geographical barriers, insufficient infrastructure, a shortage of trained medical staff, and worsening conditions from conflicts, environmental issues, resource shortages, and poor management.

In conclusion, Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari expressed hope that the Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative, aligned with globally agreed-upon health strategies, would contribute collectively to strengthening primary healthcare in low- and middle-income countries. The initiative aims to invest in their infrastructure, workforce, and resources, empowering individuals and communities to take control of their health and well-being.

The Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative was launched on Monday by the Middle East Council for International Affairs and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This initiative aims to establish a collaborative platform for countries in the Global South to engage in a comprehensive dialogue, addressing their health system challenges and proposing solutions. Additionally, it strives to assist low- and middle-income nations in achieving crucial health indicators outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals by providing essential technical and financial support.

Dr. Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, emphasized that the initiative offers leaders from the Global South a platform to share their priorities and challenges. He noted the progress in reducing child mortality globally over the past two decades but highlighted a recent slowdown in this improvement.

Dr. Tarik Yousef, Director of the Middle East Council for Global Affairs, acknowledged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for their efforts in promoting awareness about the importance of healthcare. He emphasized the initiative's role in facilitating discussions and finding collective ways to provide assistance, based on the exchange of knowledge and experiences, empowering the Global South to determine their next steps in achieving desired health goals.

During the panel discussion, which included representatives from the World Health Organization, various African and Asian countries, international experts, and officials from ministries and institutions, the focus was on exploring how Qatar could leverage its valuable experience and significant role in global organizations to support nations facing healthcare challenges.

Source: QNA