The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that six laureates advancing primary health care were recognised during the 79th World Health Assembly.
WHO said this on Wednesday, stating that the recipients were honoured by Assembly President Dr Víctor Lajam and Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus.
“Dr Víctor Lajam and Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus presented the 2026 prizes.
“The 2026 prizes celebrate dedication to primary health care, reducing inequities, and achieving health for all,” the global health body said.
The statement noted that WHO’s Executive Board selected the laureates in February, recognising their commitment to scientific excellence and outreach.
According to WHO, the recipients strengthened health systems, advanced disease control, and expanded healthcare access for vulnerable populations worldwide.
WHO also stated that 2026 marks 20 years since Dr LEE Jong-wook died during the Assembly in 2006.
“The Dr LEE Jong-wook Memorial Prize for Public Health was awarded to honour his legacy,” the statement added.
List of awards and winners
The organisation said the awards presented included the Sasakawa Health Prize, UAE Health Foundation Prize, Sheikh Sabah Prize, SingHealth Award, Dr LEE Prize, and Nelson Mandela Award, recognising outstanding contributions to improving global public health services.
“The winners include ASACOBA in Mali; Dr Worawit Tontiwattanasap in Thailand; Prof. Bruno Vellas and SingHealth in France and Singapore; Prof. Mohammad Abul Faiz in Bangladesh; and Dr Amr Kandeel in Egypt,” WHO said.
According to WHO, public health prizes are awarded annually during the Assembly to individuals and institutions worldwide.
It added that nearly 100 nominations came from all six WHO regions, reflecting growing global engagement and recognition.
