Group warm-up session at the Wan Gesontu Libi Health Fair and Walk
Paramaribo, Suriname, May 15, 2022 (OPS) – Being part of World Health Day 2022 commemorated on April 7, a joint effort was made, led by PAHO with other United Nations agencies (UNFPA, UNICEF, UNDP), the Ministry of Health and the Public Health Bureau to organize a day Health Fair and Walk with theme “Wan Gesontu Libi” (Healthy living in the local Surinamese dialect).
The event began with speeches from representatives of PAHO, UNICEF, UNDP and the Ministry of Health. It was emphasized that everyone must contribute to “a healthy earth, a clean environment and a healthy climate”. Health Minister Amar Ramadhin added that “there is no point in exercising and not smoking if we are always victims of natural disasters caused by ourselves and human impact.”
Health Minister Amar Ramadhin and PAHO/WHO Suriname Representative Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell during the 5km walk
The PAHO/WHO Representative reminded the participants of the day that
“As individuals, we can help protect our planet and our health by making healthy choices… walking or cycling when possible, using less plastic, buying fresh local produce and using health screening services and preventative interventions such as vaccination. .”
Several types of informational and creative stands were present, and participants also had the opportunity to obtain free blood pressure measurement as well as COVID-19 vaccination at the show.
A group fitness and push-up challenge during the 5K walk
An interactive session took place via a creative art booth which allowed participants to collectively paint segments of an image depicting the World Health Day theme on a large canvas. Additionally, to promote an active and healthy lifestyle, a 5 km health walk throughout the city center was organized, accompanied by several fitness challenges.
The day ended with the distribution of vegetable seedlings to all participants to plant at home, encouraging “healthy soil, clean environment and healthy climate”.
Background World Health Day
Each year, a theme is chosen that highlights an area of priority concern for the World Health Organization (WHO). In the face of the current pandemic, a polluted planet and a rising incidence of disease, the theme for World Health Day 2022 was Our Planet, Our Health. This call from PAHO, WHO and partners presented a unique opportunity for a green and healthy recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, which puts the health of people and the planet at the center of action and fosters a movement to create societies focused on well-being.
A large canvas of an artwork depicting the theme of World Health Day, where the middle puzzle pieces were painted by the participants.
