Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Generation Amazing Foundation to launch the joint programme, “Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development”.
The MoU was signed on behalf of MoPH by Dr. Salih Ali Al Marri, Assistant Minister for Health Affairs, and on behalf of the Generation Amazing Foundation by Nasser Al Khori, Executive Director of the Generation Amazing Foundation.
The MoU marks a significant step in advancing Qatar’s National Health Strategy.
The memorandum highlights the Ministry’s commitment to addressing public health challenges such as non-communicable diseases, mental health, and social inclusion through sport.
The programme is also aligned with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and aims to increase physical activity by 15 percent, serving as a global benchmark for WHO Healthy Cities, with plans for expansion following the pilot phase.
MoPH and Generation Amazing initiated training at 11 schools in September 2024, targeting students aged 6 to 12. The programme aims to improve the overall well-being of students in Qatar and equip teachers with the necessary training and resources to deliver the Sports for Health and Development Programme. The Programme focuses on three key learning outcomes: the acquisition of health knowledge, social and emotional skills development, and physical literacy.
Marking this important occasion, Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari stated, “The ‘Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development’ programme represents a vital pillar in the Ministry’s efforts to improve the health and well-being of our population.”
The Minister added, “MoPH is working in collaboration with the Generation Amazing Foundation to launch the ‘Qatar Healthy Cities: Sports for Health and Development’ initiative. Through this programme, we are not only promoting health and well-being by harnessing the power of sports, but also establishing the foundation for its expansion across the nation. Our vision is to create dynamic, health-supporting urban environments that place the well-being of all citizens at the forefront. Central to this initiative is the principle of community participation and cross-sector collaboration, which are essential components in addressing the wider determinants of health and improving the quality of life in our cities. Together, we are building a future where health is at the heart of every city, and where every individual has the opportunity to flourish.”
Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy and Chairman of the Generation Amazing Foundation, said, “This programme is yet another example of the lasting legacy created by the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. It reflects our belief in the transformative power of sport to drive positive social and humanitarian change. We are proud to offer this initiative to the people of Qatar, with the Ministry of Public Health as a trusted partner. The ‘Qatar Healthy Cities’ programme will help create healthier lifestyles for our communities, empower our youth, and allow us to play our part in supporting the advancement of our country’s National Health Strategy.”
