ADDIS ABABA — African Union Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf received H.E. Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Public Health Affairs of the State of Qatar and Qatar’s candidate for the position of Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO).
During the meeting, Dr. Al Kuwari presented her vision and priorities for the WHO and exchanged views with the AU Chairperson on the organisation’s role in addressing major global health challenges.
Discussions focused on strengthening health systems, improving preparedness and response to health emergencies, and advancing international cooperation on global health security.
Dr. Al Kuwari expressed appreciation for the African Union’s leadership in promoting health security across the continent. She also welcomed Chairperson Youssouf’s participation in the 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa.
A key point of discussion was the importance of strengthening Africa’s efforts toward greater health sovereignty, resilience and self-reliance, particularly in responding to health emergencies and building stronger and more sustainable healthcare systems.
Chairperson Youssouf, meanwhile, highlighted Qatar’s contribution to global development and its longstanding engagement in international health and development initiatives.
He also acknowledged Dr. Al Kuwari’s extensive experience in the health sector, noting that her professional background and expertise could contribute to the continued advancement of the WHO’s mandate.
The AU Chairperson further emphasized the strategic partnership between the African Union Commission and the World Health Organization, stressing the importance of deepening cooperation between the two institutions to address Africa’s health priorities.
The meeting comes as the WHO and its member states continue to confront a range of global health challenges, including health emergencies, healthcare-system resilience and the need for stronger international coordination.
Chairperson Youssouf concluded the meeting by wishing Dr. Al Kuwari well in her candidacy and conveying his best wishes for a successful campaign.
Source: African Union Commission — Official Press Release
