Brazzaville, 6 April 2012 -- The Minister of Health of the Republic of Congo, Professor Georges Moyen has today paid a courtesy call to the World Health Organization Regional Office in Djuoe, Brazzaville where he was received by Dr Luis Sambo Regional Director for Africa.

Prof Moyen was accompanied by the WHO Representative to Congo Dr Youssouf Gamatie and a Special Adviser to the Minister. The purpose of the visit was to specifically thank WHO for its support particularly during the recent explosions at Mpila, Brazzaville.

“On behalf of the Head of State, I am here to thank WHO for its prompt response. WHO provided a team of surgeons during this emergency situation. The organization has also been actively involved in surveillance, sanitation and hygiene activities at sites of the internally displaced people in the aftermath of the disaster”, said Prof Moyen.

In his response, the Regional Director highlighted the importance of preparedness so as to respond effectively to natural and man-made disasters and hinted that the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa will adopt a new strategy aimed at better managing disasters and minimizing casualties.

In preparation for the forthcoming Sixty-fifth session of the World Health Assembly which will take place in Geneva during 21-26 May 2012, the Minister who is also First Vice-President of the 61st Session of the WHO Regional Committee used the opportunity to discuss some of the key issues on the agenda.

During the Health Assembly, a number of public health issues will be discussed such as universal health coverage, Millennium Development Goals, noncommunicable diseases, eradication of poliomyelitis, mental disorders, nutrition and adolescent pregnancy, WHO programme budget and WHO Reforms.

For more information, please contact:

Dr Youssouf Gamatie, WHO Rep, Republic of Congo, + 4724134108, E-mail: gamatiey [at] cg.afro.who.int

C. Boakye-Agyemang, +4724139420; Email: Boakyec [at] afrio.who.int

Boniface Biboussi, + 4724134122; E-mail: biboussib [at] cg.afro.who.int

Sam Ajibola +47-24139378, E-mail: Ajibolas [at] afro.who.int

Flavienne Issembe +4724139352; E-Mail: Issembef [at] afro.who.int