WHO Representative in Lebanon Dr Iman Shankiti examines medical supplies at a facility

31 January 2022 – On Wednesday 26 January, WHO Representative in Lebanon Dr Iman Shankiti travelled to the Sebline area outside of Beirut to witness firsthand the impact of United Nations humanitarian assistance in Lebanon on the lives of people. Together with the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon Dr Najat Rochdi, the Country Director of the World Food Programme Abdallah Al Wardat and the Deputy Head of Office of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Helena Mazarro Garcia and Humanitarian Affairs Officer Khouloud Mahdi, they visited Ketermaya primary health care centre and Sebline governmental hospital.

Both sites are currently benefiting from exceptional assistance under the UN emergency fuel operation. This activity is part of the Lebanon Emergency Response Plan and provides time-limited, short-term support to health facilities to enable the continuity of health services during this challenging time. 

“The health situation in Lebanon is critical. Both the private and public health facilities are facing numerous challenges, including emigration of health staff, lack of medicines and medical supplies and an unreliable, and costly, supply of fuel and water. Patients are struggling to afford their most basic needs, including medicines and costs of consultation and treatment, said Dr Shankiti.

UN agencies and nongovernmental organizations remain committed to providing support to the Government of Lebanon and the health system. Continued support to public hospitals and the primary health care network helps to ensure that those who are most vulnerable and in need are able to access life-saving and life-sustaining health care.