Leading the Ivorian delegation, Pierre N’Gou Dimba took part on Monday, May 18, 2026, in the opening ceremony of the 79th World Health Assembly organized by World Health Organization at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

Held under the theme “One World for Health,” the international gathering brings together delegations from the WHO’s 194 member states, representatives of heads of state and governments, health ministers, researchers, experts, and several technical and financial partners to discuss major global public health challenges.

In a context marked by challenges related to the resilience of health systems, pandemic preparedness and response, universal health coverage, sustainable financing of health policies, and the impact of climate change on health, member states will examine several strategic issues concerning the future of global health governance.

The opening ceremony was chaired by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in the presence of several high-level political and health figures. John Dramani Mahama, special guest of this edition, also attended the official opening session.

Scheduled from May 18 to 23, 2026, the 79th World Health Assembly will also feature high-level discussions on digital health, mental health, medical innovation, artificial intelligence applied to healthcare, and the strengthening of international cooperation.

Through his participation in the opening ceremony, Minister Pierre N’Gou Dimba reaffirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to pursuing ongoing reforms in the health sector and strengthening international partnerships aimed at ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all populations.