A National Day Health Pledge

It has been just four years since the last echoes of the pandemic faded. We are the generation that confronted the horror of an unknown enemy, bravely facing the shadows of death and ultimately emerging victorious. Bahrain received global acclaim for its management of the health crisis—not only for the meticulous administrative measures that shielded us from the worst impacts of the pandemic but also for the compassion shown through a national free vaccination drive. The latest breakthroughs in COVID treatment were made available at little to no cost in real time for all.

A robust healthcare system is the cornerstone of a thriving community. Bahrain’s public health landscape continuously evolves, shaped by the highest global standards and the latest scientific and technological advancements across various medical specialties. Our leadership has effectively executed this health blueprint, resulting in an excellent public healthcare infrastructure complemented by a flourishing private healthcare network.

The accolades we have received are numerous. The most recent is the WHO accreditation certificate awarded to the Southern Governorate as a “Healthy Governorate.” This recognition was presented by Her Excellency Dr. Hanan Hassan Balkhi, the World Health Organization’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean. During the ceremony, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa emphasized that the accreditation of all four Bahraini governorates under the WHO’s Healthy Cities initiative reflects the high standards of our national health sector.

However, our journey is not without challenges. Sickle cell anemia, a genetic ailment, continues to impact quality of life and productivity. In recent years, Bahrain has also been recognized as a global hub for diabetes and obesity.

This National Day and Accession Day, let us pledge to demonstrate our love for Bahrain by embracing healthier lifestyles—ones that promote well-being for all. Together, let us commit to fostering a healthier future for Bahrain, ensuring that our legacy is one of resilience and vitality for generations to come.

Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood is the Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Tribune and the President of the Arab-African Unity Organisation for Relief, Human Rights and Counterterrorism.