Qatar Hosts Walk the Talk a Commitment to Health for All. In a remarkable demonstration of its commitment to public health, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region successfully organized the ‘Walk the Talk, Health for All Challenge’ at Oxygen Park, Education City in Doha.
This event, held just before the 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, brought together hundreds of participants to advocate for the promotion of physical activity as a key to maintaining health and well-being.
A Community United for Health and Well-Being
The event was a gathering of leaders and health advocates from across the region. Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, joined by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean H E Dr. Hanan Balkhy, welcomed ministers, health leaders from 21 member states, and delegates from the WHO Regional Committee.
In a show of unity, leaders and frontline health workers from Qatar also participated, highlighting the nation’s dedication to fostering a healthy and active society. Among the notable attendees were members of Qatar’s Olympic team, including weightlifter Fares Ibrahim Hassouna, sprinter Bashayer Almanwari, and sprinter Shahad Mohammed, who joined the public in walking the scenic route through Oxygen Park.
Qatar’s Ongoing Commitment to Health Initiatives
In her speech, Dr. Al Kuwari reflected on Qatar’s ongoing efforts to promote public health through events like Walk the Talk, which was previously held in Doha on the eve of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. She emphasized the power of walking as a simple yet impactful way to enhance both physical and mental health.
“Today’s event is a testament to our commitment to promoting health and well-being. Walking, a basic yet powerful form of exercise, can significantly improve physical and mental health, and it was inspiring to see so many people come together for this important cause,” said Dr. Al Kuwari. She extended her gratitude to everyone who participated in making the event a success, reinforcing Qatar’s leadership in promoting healthy lifestyles.
The Role of Physical Activity in Health and Well-Being
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, highlighted the fundamental role of physical activity in ensuring overall well-being. She called on communities to transform their environments into hubs of health, emphasizing the need for inclusive and accessible programs that promote active living.
“To make physical activity a fundamental part of life, we must advocate for programs that are inclusive, invest in facilities that encourage activity, and create safe and enjoyable environments,” Balkhy said. She praised Qatar for setting a stellar example of “walking the talk” in fostering a culture of physical activity and healthy living for all its residents.
Interactive Initiatives Promoting Health
The Walk the Talk event was not just about walking; it was a holistic celebration of health, with a variety of interactive booths aimed at educating participants about physical and mental health. One such booth was jointly hosted by the Ministry of Public Health and Generation Amazing, a Qatari organization that leverages the power of football to empower youth and improve global communities.
Generation Amazing has been a key partner in Qatar’s Healthy Cities Programme, making the country the first in the region to have all its municipalities designated as “Healthy Cities.” This program aligns with Qatar’s broader mission to integrate physical activity and public health efforts into daily life, ensuring that communities are equipped with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives.
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Aspire Zone, home to state-of-the-art sports facilities in Doha, also showcased its various health and well-being programs. The Aspire Zone initiative is pivotal in fostering physical activity by providing opportunities for people of all ages to engage in sports and fitness activities.
Additionally, public health sector teams were present to promote mental health awareness, with a particular focus on the “Are You OK” campaign. This initiative is designed to encourage open conversations about mental health and provide information on both health and social well-being. The campaign, along with other mental health initiatives, is an integral part of Qatar’s strategy to address the growing need for mental health and well-being support.
The Unifying Power of Sport
The event concluded with an exhibition football match organized by Generation Amazing, featuring sports legends and children from Gaza, who are currently in Qatar receiving medical care. This match was a poignant reminder of the unifying power of sports, not just in promoting physical fitness, but also in fostering social bonds and healing.
By bringing people together from different walks of life and different regions, this event showcased how Qatar is using sports as a tool for health promotion and community engagement. This is in line with the nation’s broader commitment to ensuring that sports and physical activity play a central role in the health and well-being of its population.
Qatar Leading the Way in Health for All
Through events like Walk the Talk, Qatar is setting an example for the region and the world. The country’s emphasis on integrating physical activity into daily life and promoting both mental and physical well-being is aligned with global health strategies. By prioritizing the health of its citizens, Qatar is not only addressing immediate public health challenges but also building a sustainable future where health and well-being are accessible to all.
The collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health and WHO reflects a shared vision of creating environments that promote health and encourage active lifestyles. As Dr. Balkhy mentioned, the transformation of communities into vibrant hubs of health is critical for long-term health outcomes, and Qatar is leading the way in making this vision a reality.
Conclusion
The Walk the Talk, Health for All Challenge at Oxygen Park was a significant milestone in Qatar’s ongoing journey toward promoting health and well-being. By bringing together leaders, athletes, and citizens, the event underscored the importance of physical activity, mental health awareness, and community engagement in building a healthier society.
As Qatar continues to champion health initiatives like Walk the Talk, it is paving the way for a future where physical activity is a natural part of everyday life and where the health and well-being of all residents are prioritized. Through continued collaboration with global organizations like WHO, Qatar is positioned to make lasting contributions to global public health.