Banjul, 17 May 2012 -- The WHO Country Office (WCO) yesterday briefed the Gambian delegation to the 65th World Health Assembly (WHA). “Such a briefing session is now a tradition of the WCO to prepare country delegates to this important global WHO governing body”, Dr Thomas Sukwa, WHO Representative (WR) to the Gambia, reiterated in welcoming delegates to the WCO.

The Gambia delegation is headed by the Honorable Minister of Health and Social Welfare (MoHSW), Fatim Badjie. She will be accompanied by the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical), Dr Makie Taal, the Director of Health Services, Dr Mamadi Cham and a representative of the Gambia Nurses and Midwives’ Council, Mr Juma Jallow.

The WR also told the delegation that “it is not only traditional but such an activity constitutes one of the core functions of the WCO which allows both parties (WCO and MoHSW) to exchange notes on key health issues of national concern as they relate to the agenda of the WHA”.

During the three-hour session, Dr Sukwa, supported by the Programme Officers, explained the rationale, procedure and protocols of WHA as the delegates were taken through the agenda items of this year’s Assembly. WCO also prepared and shared draft technical briefs aimed at facilitating and enhancing country participation in this important global health forum.

In appreciation of the support rendered to her Ministry, the Health Minister thanked Dr Sukwa and his team for always being available to support the health sector. “WHO is unquestionably the leader in health and our closest partner in the health sector, whose support to the sector has been remarkable and the country is proud of”, Honorable Minister noted.

The Minister also expressed her appreciation for this kind of meeting between her Ministry and the WCO, and thanked the WHO Country Team for their competence and support.

WCO briefs Gambian delegation to WHA65

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For more details please contact:

Mr. Momodou Gassama, Health Promotion Officer-9331961 Ext. 30805, Office: 00220 4462283/84/86

Mr. George Williams-Health Information Assistant-9900248 Ext.30808

The WHO Gambia Office, New Kotu Layout P.M.B 170, Banjul, The GAMBIA