Global Health Leaders Honored at the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly

The Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly has officially recognized six laureates for their extraordinary contributions to global public health. These awards, presented by the President of the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly, Dr. Víctor Elias Atallah Lajam, and WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, celebrate individuals and institutions that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing primary health care and reducing health inequities.

Commitment to Global Health Excellence

The 2026 laureates were selected by the WHO Executive Board in February 2026. Their collective work spans a wide range of critical health areas, including the strengthening of primary health care systems, disease control, community empowerment, and the expansion of essential services for the world’s most vulnerable populations. This year’s ceremony also holds special significance, marking 20 years since the passing of Dr. LEE Jong-wook, the sixth Director-General of the World Health Organization.

2026 Public Health Prize Laureates

The following individuals and institutions were honored for their pioneering efforts in their respective fields:

• Sasakawa Health Prize: The Banconi Community Health Association (ASACOBA), Mali, for its commitment to strengthening community-based primary health care and supporting underserved populations.
• United Arab Emirates Health Foundation Prize: Dr. Worawit Tontiwattanasap, Thailand, recognized for his work in transforming health service access for rural, stateless, and cross-border communities.
• State of Kuwait Health Promotion Foundation’s His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Prize for the Promotion of Healthy Ageing: Professor Bruno Vellas, France, for his advancements in community-based care for older people, and SingHealth, Singapore, for its integrated, cross-sectoral approach to age-friendly environments.
• Dr. LEE Jong-wook Memorial Prize for Public Health: Professor Mohammad Abul Faiz, Bangladesh, honored for his lifelong dedication to addressing diseases among marginalized and rural populations.
• Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion: Dr. Amr Mohamed Kandeel, Egypt, recognized for his leadership in building resilient, prevention-oriented public health systems through digital innovation and equity.

The Impact of Global Recognition

Public health prizes awarded during the World Health Assembly serve to highlight the importance of scientific excellence and community-driven solutions. Over the past 15 years, more than 80 laureates from over 50 WHO Member States have been recognized for their work. In 2026, the selection process saw significant global engagement, with nearly 100 nominations submitted across all six WHO regions.

Key Takeaways

• Six global laureates were honored for their commitment to primary health care and health equity.
• Awards are designated annually by the WHO Executive Board following a rigorous nomination process by Member States and former laureates.
• The 2026 theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” emphasizes the role of scientific progress in protecting well-being worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As the World Health Organization continues its mission to promote health and serve the vulnerable, these awards underscore the necessity of collaboration. By recognizing those on the front lines—from community health associations in Mali to public health leaders in Egypt—the global community reinforces its commitment to the goal of “health for all.” The dedication shown by these laureates serves as a blueprint for future health initiatives, ensuring that science-based, equitable care remains the cornerstone of global health policy.

For more information on the World Health Organization’s ongoing initiatives and the 2026 campaign, visit the official WHO website.