Ministry of Health officials on Monday evening bid farewell to the outgoing World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative of, Dr. Jack Abdoulie, in a colourful ceremony in Kigali.
Ministry of Health officials on Monday evening bid farewell to the outgoing World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative of, Dr. Jack Abdoulie, in a colourful ceremony in Kigali.
Abdoulie has been in the country for the last two years and according to officials, his successor was approved by cabinet last Friday.
Health Minister, Dr. Richard Sezibera, noted that Abdoulie has been a close colleague in the country’s agenda to advance health for all.
He added that the outgoing WHO boss has been a key player in the country’s quest to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) in the health sector.
"I want to thank WHO for believing with us that it is possible to achieve all MDGs, including those that at one time seemed so difficult to achieve in Africa, especially MDG5,” the minister said.
MDG 5 aims at improving maternal health.
"Dr. Abdoulie and the whole WHO system are working towards a statistical basis that will help us make sure that this goal is attained. WHO remains a valued partner in our fight to reduce child and maternal mortality, combat against HIV, malaria and other diseases.”
In relation to the on-going efforts to strengthen health systems, Sezibera emphasized that Abdoulie has worked closely with the ministry to design health financing architecture as well as the development of the country’s own disaster preparedness plan.
He therefore thanked him for his significant support adding that government continues to be a strong partner with WHO in the achievement of many health goals.
In his farewell remarks, Abdoulie also thanked the ministerial staff for the support rendered during his tenure and emphasized that under the stewardship of Dr. Sezibera, the team has worked with great determination to advance various health initiatives.
"When I see you doing things, I wonder if it will be possible, but you have great determination and commitment to get things going. It has been a unique experience and I would like to thank the health minister, Dr. Sezibera, for his outstanding leadership in this ministry.”
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