Promoting Health from Within: UN Wellness Week Kicks Off in Ethiopia

The UN community in Ethiopia is participating in a series of activities as part of UN Wellness Week, a global initiative led by the United Nations to promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of its staff.

Organized by the UN Health Care Center, the week features a variety of events including a health expo, screenings for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), informative lectures on a range of health topics, and wellness activities such as mindfulness exercises and stress management sessions.

At the opening of Wellness Week, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, emphasized the importance of staff well-being in achieving the UN’s mission.

“Here at the UN, we have a duty—not only to advocate for global health—but also to lead by example by promoting health and wellness within our own community,” said Dr. Alakbarov.

He noted that while UN staff work tirelessly to promote sustainable development and equity, non-communicable diseases pose a threat to these goals.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) disproportionately impact low- and middle-income countries, where 82% of premature NCD-related deaths occur. Diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, cancers, chronic respiratory illnesses, and diabetes caused at least 43 million deaths in 2021—representing 75% of all non-pandemic-related fatalities globally.

Dr. Alakbarov urged staff to take simple, daily steps to reduce their risk of NCDs and to support one another in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“We need to commit to prevention and encourage one another to take advantage of wellness programs and mental health resources in the UN,” he said.

He also reaffirmed the UN Country Team’s dedication to fostering a supportive workplace that prioritizes the health and well-being of all staff.

“A supportive workplace is essential to promote our health,” Dr. Alakbarov said.