Ibri Joins Global Healthy Cities Network Through New Agreement with WHO

Oman, WHO Strengthen Partnership as Ibri Declared a Healthy City

Ibri: A memorandum of cooperation (MoC) was signed today in the Wilayat of Ibri between Ibri Healthy City and the World Health Organization (WHO), as part of national efforts to strengthen partnerships that support Healthy Cities programmes, promote sustainable development, and enhance community health awareness.

Sheikh Dr. Said bin Humaid Al Harthy, Wali of Ibri and chief guest of the event, delivered a speech in which he affirmed that the signing of the MoC represents an important milestone in the Wilayat’s Healthy Cities journey. He noted that the initiative aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 in the areas of health, well-being, and community development. He added that the declaration of Ibri as a Healthy City reflects the commitment of the Wilayat’s institutions to enhancing quality of life and building a sustainable urban environment that supports improved health services and practices.

The Wali highlighted that Ibri possesses human, geographical, and urban resources that qualify it to join the global Healthy Cities network. He emphasized the importance of integrated efforts across government, private, and civil society sectors to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the programme.

For his part, Dr. Jean Jabbour, WHO Representative to the Sultanate of Oman, affirmed that the inclusion of Ibri in the Healthy Cities network reinforces Oman’s commitment to advancing sustainable development. He noted that the Wilayat has the capabilities needed to serve as a model for community-driven public health initiatives. He added that the WHO Office in Oman will continue to provide technical support and share expertise to expand the programme’s impact in line with the shared vision of “Health for All”.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ahmed bin Said Al Kalbani, Director General of Health Services in A’Dhahirah Governorate, stressed that the project represents a pioneering national step demonstrating strong partnership between government institutions and the community. He pointed out that the Healthy Cities programme provides an effective platform for improving quality of life and empowering local initiatives.

The ceremony included a visual presentation on the concept of Healthy Cities, as well as the signing of several partnership agreements with supporting institutions, including Daleel Petroleum and Aster Hospital – Ibri branch.

The signing of the MoC marks an advanced stage of cooperation between national and international partners and reinforces efforts to build a supportive environment for healthy lifestyles and sustainable well-being for residents of the Wilayat of Ibri.