World Health Day observed

The World Health Day was observed at national level today, 17 April here in the capital, Asmara, under the theme “Universal Health Coverage: Everyone, Everywhere”.

Asmara, 17 April 2019- The World Health Day was observed at national level today, 17 April here in the capital, Asmara, under the theme “Universal Health Coverage: Everyone, Everywhere”.

At the ceremony held at the Orotta National Referral Hospital, Dr. Andebrhan Tesfatsion, Acting D. G. of Public Health at the Ministry of Health said that the World Health Day is one of the eight days being observed in relation to health issues and that universal health coverage is the basic goal of the World Health Organization.

Dr. Andebrhan noted that the Government of Eritrea alongside the sustainable goals is working to ensure the provision of health services to citizens by designing strategic health policy.

Dr. Ibrahim Sambuli, UNFPA Representative in Eritrea, indicated that half of the world population do not receive basic health services, millions of pregnant women do not receive health service during delivery and millions of children die due to lack of vaccination and that countries are working to ensure universal health coverage until 2030 as well as realizing the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Ibrahim also expressed expectation that Eritrea will achieve the Sustainable Development Goals ahead of 2030.

Indicating that the World Health Day is dedicated for the progress of the health sector worldwide, Mr. Pierre Ngom, UNICEF Representative in Eritrea, explained that Eritrea is on the right track in achieving the universal health coverage and in immunization program especially to that of children.

The World Health Day is being observed for the 71st time at international level and for the 21st time at national level.