UNICEF Deputy Regional Director visits Oman

UNICEF Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Marc Rubin, is visiting the Sultanate of Oman this week to engage in high-level discussions with government counterparts and participate in the UNICEF regional Health and Nutrition Network meetings.

During the visit, the Deputy Regional Director will engage with key officials from the Ministry of Health, the Foreign Ministry, National Center for Statistics and Information, the Environment Authority, the Ministry of Health and the Social Protection Fund as well as with the World Health Organization and other partners.  The discussions will focus on enhancing collaborative efforts to tackle critical issues such as child health, nutrition, climate change, protection and strengthening evidence through data. These meetings aim to reinforce the partnership between UNICEF and the Omani government in ensuring that children in Oman continue to thrive.

In addition to the high-level meetings, the Deputy Director will attend the regional Health and Nutrition Network meetings hosted in the Sultanate. These sessions bring together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the region to share best practices, discuss innovative solutions, and develop strategies to improve child health and nutrition outcomes for all countries in the MENA region. During the meetings, over 70 regional health and nutrition experts will visit health centers throughout Muscat to observe and experience the advancements in services and health interventions designed to accelerate health outcomes for children. The Deputy Director's participation highlights UNICEF’s dedication to fostering regional cooperation and knowledge exchange to tackle pressing health challenges.

UNICEF Regional Deputy Director Mr. Rubin expressed optimism about the visit, stating, “I am honored to visit Oman and engage with our government partners and regional colleagues. Together, we can build on our achievements and address the challenges that lie ahead to ensure every child in the region has the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated, and protected.”

This visit reaffirms UNICEF’s commitment to collaborating with the Omani government and regional partners to advance the rights and well-being of children. Through these efforts, UNICEF aims to contribute to a brighter future for all children in Oman and the broader region.