<\/p>\n
The awards were presented by V\u00edctor Elias Atallah Lajam, President of the World Health Assembly, alongside WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and representatives of partner foundations.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The 2026 laureates were selected by the WHO Executive Board earlier in the year and were recognised for work ranging from strengthening primary health care systems to improving access to services for vulnerable communities. The organisation said the awards reflect a shared commitment to advancing health outcomes through innovation, research and community engagement.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The Banconi Community Health Association in Mali received the Sasakawa Health Prize for its work in strengthening community-based healthcare and improving access for underserved populations. The organisation was recognised for developing locally driven solutions that expand essential services.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Dr Worawit Tontiwattanasap of Thailand was awarded the United Arab Emirates Health Foundation Prize. Tontiwattanasap was honoured for expanding access to healthcare for rural and stateless populations through outreach services, training and policy advocacy.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The State of Kuwait Prize for the Promotion of Healthy Ageing was awarded to Bruno Vellas of France and the SingHealth group in Singapore. Both were recognised for advancing approaches to care for older populations, including community-based services and integrated health systems.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The Dr Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize for Public Health was awarded to Mohammad Abul Faiz of Bangladesh, in recognition of contributions to improving health outcomes among rural and disadvantaged communities. The award also marks 20 years since the death of former WHO Director General Lee Jong-wook.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion was presented to Amr Mohamed Kandeel of Egypt. Kandeel was recognised for leadership in building a public health system focused on prevention, disease control and digital innovation.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The WHO said the awards highlight ongoing efforts to bring the goal of health for all closer to reality, particularly through programmes that reduce disparities and improve access to essential care.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
–WHO\/ChannelAfrica–<\/p>\n
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