Muscat: UNICEF Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Marc Rubin, visited the Sultanate of Oman last week to engage in high-level discussions with government counterparts and discussed efforts to promote child health and nutrition.
During the visit, the Deputy Regional Director met key officials from the Ministry of Health, the Foreign Ministry, the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the Environment Authority, and the Social Protection Fund as well as with the World Health Organization and other partners. The discussions focussed on enhancing collaborative efforts to tackle critical issues such as child health, nutrition, climate change, protection and strengthening evidence through data. These meetings aim to reinforce the partnership between UNICEF and the Omani government in ensuring that children in Oman continue to thrive.
In addition to the high-level meetings, the Deputy Regional Director attended the regional Health and Nutrition Network meetings hosted in the Sultanate. These sessions bring together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the region to share best practices, discuss innovative solutions, and develop strategies to improve child health and nutrition outcomes for all countries in the MENA region.
During the meetings, over 70 regional health and nutrition experts visited health centres throughout Muscat to observe and experience the advancements in services and health interventions designed to accelerate health outcomes for children. The Deputy Regional Director's participation highlights UNICEF’s dedication to fostering regional cooperation and knowledge exchange to tackle pressing health challenges.
UNICEF Deputy Regional Director Rubin expressed optimism about the visit, stating, “I am honoured to visit Oman and engage with our government partners and regional colleagues. Together, we can build on our achievements and address the challenges that lie ahead to ensure every child in the region has the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated and protected.”
This visit reaffirms UNICEF’s commitment to collaborating with the Omani government and regional partners to advance the rights and well-being of children. Through these efforts, UNICEF aims to contribute to a brighter future for all children in Oman and the broader region.
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