High-Level Mission reinforces commitment to regional health services in Guinea-Bissau

Ministry of Public Health and WHO joint mission covered six health regions and highlighted the need for stronger coordination, better use of resources and improved access to care

Bissau-The Ministry of Public Health and WHO in Guinea-Bissau carried out a joint mission to regional health facilities between 28 and 31 May 2026, visiting health structures in Tombali, Quinará, Bafatá, Gabú, Oio and Cacheu.

The mission brought national health authorities and WHO teams closer to the daily realities of regional services, with visits to hospitals, health centres and administrative health structures. It also created space for dialogue with health workers, regional authorities, community leaders, civil society and women's representatives.

The visits made it possible to observe progress in health infrastructure and service organization, while also identifying practical challenges that continue to affect the delivery of care. These include the need for continuous training of health professionals, improved maintenance of medical and laboratory equipment, better distribution of qualified human resources, and further investment in health facilities serving hard-to-reach communities.

Turning field observations into coordinated action

Throughout the mission, the teams reviewed how available resources are being used and discussed ways to strengthen service delivery at regional level. The findings will inform follow-up actions by the Ministry of Public Health, WHO and health partners, particularly in areas where infrastructure, equipment, staffing and community access require closer attention.

The mission also underscored the importance of listening to local actors. Health teams and community representatives shared first-hand information on service needs, operational constraints and barriers faced by communities in accessing timely and quality care.

WHO Representative in Guinea-Bissau calls for stronger partner alignment

According to Dr. Walter, WHO Representative in Guinea-Bissau, the mission showed the value of continued support from development partners to the health sector, while also pointing to the need for greater coordination.

"To optimize the delivery of the minimum package of health services for Universal Health Coverage, a high level of coordination is needed. WHO calls on all development partners to unite around the leadership of the Minister of Public Health, ensuring stronger integration around the One Health Policy, One Health Strategy, One Health Plan, One Budget, One Monitoring and Evaluation System and One Report, in order to guarantee an integrated, people-centred, high-quality and barrier-free approach for communities."

He noted that better coordination is essential to ensure that donated equipment and investments in infrastructure are effectively distributed, maintained and used to improve services for the population.

Commitment to Universal Health Coverage

WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Ministry of Public Health in strengthening the national health system and advancing towards Universal Health Coverage.

The joint mission is expected to guide practical follow-up measures aimed at improving the quality of care, strengthening regional health services and reducing barriers faced by communities, especially in underserved and hard-to-reach areas.