Minister of Social Development and Relief Joins "Revitalizing Gaza's Health Sector" Conference and Backs New Agreements

Ramallah – Thursday, January 16, 2025. A conference titled "Revitalizing the Health Sector in Gaza: Emergency Support for Health Facilities in Gaza (2025)" was held today, organized by the Palestinian American Medical Association (PAMA). The conference was attended by local and international ministers and officials, with online participation from civil society organizations working in Gaza.

Minister of Social Development and Relief, Dr. Samah Hamad, emphasized the Palestinian government's role in coordinating with international and regional partners, praising the effective partnership with PAMA. She highlighted the government's readiness to provide immediate relief and restore hope to the people of Gaza, stressing that these efforts are both a national duty and a humanitarian message reflecting shared values.

The Minister also addressed the suffering of children, women, and the elderly, noting that the loss of hope and homes is a moral responsibility requiring collective action. She affirmed the government's commitment, alongside international institutions, the private sector, and civil society, to rebuild the sector, provide essential services like water and electricity, and ensure the return of displaced families to their homes.

The conference also saw participation from Minister of Health Dr. Majid Abu Ramadan, Minister of Housing and Public Works Ahed Bseiso, Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Amjad Barham, as well as the CEO of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, Randa Bani Odeh, and President of PAMA, Dr. Majdi Hamarsheh. Dr. Mustafa Musleh, President of PAMA, and Sarah Bull, UNDP Special Representative, also spoke, emphasizing the importance of ongoing joint efforts to support Gaza's health sector.

During the conference, several agreements were signed between the partners to implement emergency projects aimed at enhancing health services and providing necessary medical equipment for Gaza's health facilities. Notable interventions were made, including an online contribution from Hussein Murtaja of the Gaza Cultural and Development Group, representing civil society organizations in Gaza.

In conclusion, the importance of continued collaboration between all parties to implement the agreed-upon projects was reaffirmed, with a focus on strengthening cooperation to support the health sector in Gaza and boost the resilience of its citizens in facing the ongoing challenges.