Global health leaders honoured at WHO Assembly for healthcare impact
Six individuals and institutions have been recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for their contributions to strengthening primary healthcare and advancing global public health. The honours were announced at the 79th World Health Assembly. The WHO said it received nearly 100 nominations from all six regions of the world, reflecting broad global participation in the selection process.
WHO said the 2026 laureates were selected by its Executive Board earlier in the year in recognition of work that has improved health systems, expanded access to care, and reduced inequalities in underserved communities.
The organisation noted that the awards also highlight innovation and sustained commitment to public health delivery across different regions of the world.
This year’s ceremony also marked 20 years since the death of former WHO Director-General Dr LEE Jong-wook, with a memorial prize established in his honour. Awards presented included the Sasakawa Health Prize, UAE Health Foundation Prize, Sheikh Sabah Prize, SingHealth Award, Dr LEE Jong-wook Memorial Prize, and the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion.
Among the recipients were ASACOBA in Mali, Worawit Tontiwattanasap of Thailand, Bruno Vellas and SingHealth from France and Singapore, Mohammad Abul Faiz of Bangladesh, and Amr Kandeel of Egypt.
It added that the annual prizes continue to spotlight efforts aimed at strengthening health systems and improving equity in healthcare delivery worldwide.
