According to Health Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy, the ministry and its various partners in have taken it upon themselves to “demonstrate by deeds how we can promote health in our country,” in recognition of this year’s World Health Day, which is being observed under the theme “1000 Cities, 1000 Lives.”
Ramsammy explained that the ministry is collaborating with other ministries, the UN and other international agencies as well as the police, the churches and private businesses with offices located along Brickdam, to “transform” it into “a healthy space.” “…We expect that other streets will utilise the model that we are using so that by Caribbean Wellness Day [observed on September 11], there should be at least two other streets in Georgetown and we hope across the country that will emulate our model for a healthy space promoting healthy life,” Ramsammy said.
Meanwhile, PAHO/WHO Country Representative Dr Kathleen Israel said this year’s theme for World Health Day was chosen to spotlight urbanisation and, in particular, the health consequence that can come about as a result rapid urbanisation. Dr Israel noted that while in urban areas people have greater access to goods and services, often the infrastructure in cities are unable to keep pace with rapid influx of persons and this leads to serious problems. She said the problems are not limited to health issues, citing violence, overcrowding and high unemployment. There are also problems associated with solid waste and citizens unable to access safe drinking water. “It is an issue that is bigger than we think, it is a global issue and I see that one billon people live in urban shanties where people do not have access to as much as we like in order to stay healthy,” she said.
She also stressed that it is the responsibility of every person to ensure that their environment is kept healthy and safe.
The health fair would be held between 12 pm and 5:30 pm on Sunday. It aims, among other things, at educating persons about alternatives to plastic and Styrofoam boxes. There would also be health booths that would provide screening and public education on several diseases as well as testing for cervical cancer, diabetes and HIV coupled with dental screening, skin care treatment and breast examinations. The fair would also entail physical activities, such as football, cycling, dancing, trampolines and go-carts, among others. Food courts and drink bars will be available but there would be no alcohol available and persons are asked not to smoke during the fair.
The minister revealed that there are plans for two similar activities along Brickdam before the end of the year.
