Two more constituencies in Bahrain have been designated as ‘healthy cities’ by the World Health Organisation (WHO) bringing the total number in the kingdom to four … and more may join them.
A’ali, Bahrain’s oldest prehistoric settlement dating back to between the first and third millennium BC, received the recognition for the Northern Governorate.
And, Busaiteen and Al Sayah (constituency one) in the Muharraq Governorate were also acknowledged jointly for healthy city status.
Official certificates marking their status were handed over by WHO Eastern Mediterranean regional director Dr Ahmed Al Mandhari at special ceremonies in both areas.
“The two selected cities are exactly what we are looking for as they embody history and urban development working together in harmony while ensuring the concepts of healthy living are maintained and developed,” said Dr Al Mandhari.
“Health is not just about hygiene and medical facilities, it is much more comprehensive than that. It focuses on all things that contribute to a better way of living and cleaner surroundings.
“Bahrain wants more and we also want additions to the international healthy cities network. The potential of other areas has to be explored.”
Bahrain’s Fab Four also features Umm Al Hassam and Manama which achieved the status in 2018 and 2021, respectively. Manama was the first capital city in the Middle East to receive the honour.
The Healthy Cities initiative was conceived with the goal of placing well-being high on the social and political agenda of urban areas by promoting health equity and sustainable development through innovation and change.
The WHO Healthy Cities project was first launched in 1978. The network of connected cities has grown over the years and there are now thousands of municipalities linked through national Healthy City networks across all regions of the globe. The programme is supported by a number of WHO Collaborating Centres based in academic institutions, providing advice and research.
The ceremonies to mark the success of Bahrain’s latest ‘healthy cities’ were attended yesterday by Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayed, senior ministry and government officials and public representatives at the Northern Governorate headquarters in Quraya and the Muharraq Governorate headquarters in Abu Maher.
Dr Al Sayed said elevating areas in Bahrain was a continuous process in a bid to improve the quality of life, services and community participation.
“The developmental and progressive health-oriented initiatives by both governorates to get A’ali and Busaiteen and Al Sayah have been rewarded with international recognition,” she said.
“Both areas have ticked all the right boxes on both local and international scales and together we will ensure it is not a one-off. There are further targets that both areas will have to put effort in to achieve.”
Muharraq Governor Salman Bin Hindi believes diversity contributes to better living too. “A diverse society that is united, active and productive makes for a healthy city,” he said. “This is complimented by health, social and community facilities and the participation of everyone living in the areas.
“Busaiteen and Al Sayah are model examples that we can work with towards spreading the healthy living message.”
And, the good work continues. Northern Governor Ali Al Asfoor said new plans have already been drawn up and there would be no resting on their laurels.
“We will work to introduce new programmes that include promoting healthy eating, playing sport, raising awareness of health initiatives and the early detection of illnesses, as well as enhancing hygienic practices,” he said.
“There are multiple plans we have in mind that this recognition will surely help push forward.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))