6 days ago
Oman reviews its 'One Health' implementation efforts
TUNIS: The Sultanate of Oman participated as the guest of honour at the One Health Regional Conference for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, hosted by the Republic of Tunisia. The Sultanate of Oman's delegation was headed by Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health.
Dr Al Sabti delivered a speech in which he reviewed the Sultanate of Oman's efforts to implement the One Health approach. He pointed out that the conference constitutes a vital platform for exchanging experiences and best practices, enhancing collective efforts and strengthening regional and international cooperation to address health challenges according to an integrated and comprehensive approach that places human, animal and environmental health at the core of its concerns.
He highlighted the Sultanate of Oman's efforts to implement the One Health approach. He explained that the Sultanate of Oman has established several national mechanisms to support the One Health approach, including the formation of national committees and sectoral teams to activate integration between sectors. Those include the National Committee for Integrated Disease Vector Management, the National Committee for Food Safety and Quality, the National Committee for the Hydrological Programme for Safe Water Resources, the National Committee for Climate Change and Ozone Layer Protection, the National Committee for the Sound Management of Chemicals and the Central Team for Improving Environmental Performance in coordination with the Environment Authority to ensure the safety of ecosystems and adaptation to climate change.
'The Sultanate of Oman has played a leading and distinguished role in international forums on the issue of antimicrobial resistance, highlighted by its organisation and hosting of the Third High-Level Global Ministerial Conference for the first time in the MENA region in Muscat in 2022. Besides, the Muscat Conference and the Muscat Final Statement, signed by 47 countries, marked the starting point for preparations for the United Nations High-Level Meeting to discuss the issue of antimicrobial resistance, held in New York on September 26, 2024," he said.
'Within the framework of our commitment to sustainability and the environment (climate change), we launched the Carbon Neutrality Project, which represents a strategic pillar for supporting environmental health by achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This project is a strategic step to support environmental health, improve air quality and reduce health risks resulting from climate change reflecting the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to the principles of One Health and the requirements of sustainable development.', he added.
He emphasised that the Sultanate of Oman firmly believes that addressing global and regional health challenges requires concerted efforts and cooperation across all sectors to ensure human health, animal safety and environmental sustainability. This is essential for achieving sustainable development; and enhancing health and food security for our communities. — ONA
