World Health Organisation (WHO)
Office in South Africa:
Director is Dr W Shasha
HISTORY AND PRESENT STATUS
The WHO assists in the strengthening of national
health services and gives technical assistance to
governments, on request. It further maintains epidemiological
and statistical services; stimulates the eradication
of epidemic, endemic and other diseases; promotes
the prevention of accidental injuries and the improvement
of nutrition, housing, sanitation, working conditions
and other aspects of environmental hygiene; promotes
cooperation between scientific and professional
groups contributing to the advancement of health;
proposes international conventions and regulations
on health matters; promotes and conducts research
and improves standards of education in the health
professions; establishes international nomenclature
and standardized diagnostic procedures; and promotes
international standards for food, biological and
pharmaceutical products.
South Africa was a founding member of the WHO in
1947. During 1964, the 17th Session of the World
Health Assembly deprived South Africa of its voting
rights at future WHO Assemblies. South Africa was
unanimously readmitted as an active member of the
WHO during the 47th World Health Assembly, held
from 2 to 13 May 1994. WHO has made an amount of
US$ 3 261 700 available for 1998/99 to be utilized
by the South African Department of Health. WHO assists
with all major health crises in South Africa, such
as HIV/AIDS and Cholera.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND COOPERATING ORGANISATIONS
Department of Health
