Libya's Health Minister, Mohammed al-Goj, recently met with Shbl Sahbani, the representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Libya, to explore avenues of cooperation in the healthcare sector. The meeting, which took place on September 22, 2026, in Tripoli, focused on supporting health programs, enhancing primary healthcare, and developing the capabilities of Libyan medical staff. This initiative aims to improve the quality of healthcare services provided to Libyan citizens.
During the meeting, al-Goj and Sahbani discussed several issues related to the development of healthcare services and enhancing the efficiency of the healthcare system in Libya. The two parties emphasized the importance of continuing coordination and joint work to support efforts to develop the health sector and improve the quality of healthcare services. This cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on the overall healthcare landscape in Libya.
The Libyan Ministry of Health has been working to update its national strategy for maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health for the period from 2027 to 2032. In August 2026, the ministry held a meeting to discuss the update, which involved a national team and experts from the WHO. The meeting reviewed the current state of healthcare services, identified gaps and priority needs, and was attended by relevant health and academic institutions, as well as partners.
The WHO has been actively involved in supporting Libya's health sector, particularly in areas such as disease prevention and response. The organization's representative in Libya, Shbl Sahbani, has been working closely with the Libyan Ministry of Health to address various health challenges facing the country. This includes providing technical assistance, training, and capacity-building programs for healthcare workers.
One of the key areas of focus for the Libyan Ministry of Health is the development of its healthcare infrastructure. The ministry has announced plans to adopt 10 projects for the construction and development of public and specialized hospitals. This move is part of a broader strategy to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare services across the country.
In addition to infrastructure development, the Libyan Ministry of Health has also launched programs aimed at enhancing the skills and competencies of its healthcare workforce. Recently, the ministry introduced a training program for healthcare professionals in areas such as mental health, positive education, and psychosocial support. This program aims to equip healthcare workers with the necessary skills to provide high-quality care to patients.
The meeting between al-Goj and Sahbani reflects the ongoing efforts of the Libyan government to strengthen its partnerships with international organizations and leverage their expertise to improve the country's healthcare sector. With the support of organizations like the WHO, Libya aims to address its health challenges and provide better healthcare services to its citizens.
Key points
- Libya's Health Minister Mohammed al-Goj seeks WHO support for medical programs and staff development to improve healthcare services.
