On Monday, March 16, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition held a multisectoral stakeholder consultation to complete the International Health Regulations (IHR) State Party Annual Assessment.
The session was further enhanced by the presence of a small team from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), led by PAHO/WHO Representative (PWR) Dr. Amalia Del Riego, who praised the collaborative efforts of all participating stakeholders.
This annual assessment is a vital component of the country’s commitment to strengthening national capacities for the prevention, detection, and response to public health threats, in line with the International Health Regulations (2005). The event gathered representatives from crucial sectors, including health, agriculture, environment, national security, and other relevant agencies.
This highlighted the importance of a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to public health preparedness and response.
During the assessment, participants engaged in comprehensive discussions and evaluations of the country’s core capacities, identifying strengths, gaps, and priority areas for improvement.
The collaborative nature of the exercise fostered meaningful dialogue and reinforced the partnerships essential for effective public health action. The Ministry extends its gratitude to all stakeholders for their invaluable contributions and ongoing commitment to safeguarding national health security.
The outcomes of this assessment will inform strategic planning and targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the country’s ability to respond to public health emergencies. The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Nutrition remains dedicated to collaborating with all partners to ensure the health and well-being of the population.