The Ministry of Health in Timor-Leste kicked off the first of many celebratory events for the 75th anniversary of WHO on April 4th. The event was attended by senior government officials, ambassadors, partner organizations, and WHO Timor-Leste colleagues. HE Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak also sent a recorded message for the event.
During the event, COVID-19 champions and immunization champions were recognized for their hard work. Additionally, two important documents were launched - a policy brief on Pro-Health Taxes and the National Strategic Plan for Leprosy (2022-2025).
Dr. Odete Maria Freitas Belo, the Minister of Health, gave a speech at the event and emphasized the importance of health in all sectors of development. She thanked WHO Timor-Leste for the constant support in improving public health.
Dr. Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative, also spoke at the event and assured the Ministry of Health, government, and people of Timor-Leste that the organization will continue to stand with them to face future challenges with science, solutions, and solidarity.
He highlighted a unique initiative undertaken in Timor-Leste to combat non communicable diseases, which are known as biggest killers in the country. “We have rolled out an ambitious program of preventing and managing non communicable diseases called the ‘Timor-Leste Hearts’, which aims to put 50,000 people with hypertension and diabetes on standard care by 2025,” said Dr. Mathur adding that it includes promoting healthy lifestyles and working incrementally to address challenges of mental health too.
The event was a great success in celebrating WHO's 75th anniversary and recognizing the efforts of those who have worked hard to improve public health in Timor-Leste.