Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M42, a first-of-its-kind health powerhouse that is committed to reshaping the future of health in a sustainable manner, with technology as a key enabler. The collaboration aims to enhance public health measures with the signing taking place at this year’s biggest climate conference COP28, currently under way in the UAE.
Under the MoU, G42 Healthcare, an M42 company, will collect and test samples to monitor pathogen spread, detect disease threats and utilise all potential sources of information to develop a resilient early warning system.
In the presence of H.E. Matar Saeed Rashed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), and Mr. Ashish Koshy, Group Chief Operating Officer, M42, the MoU was signed by H.E. Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of M42.
H.E. Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Infectious Diseases Sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), said: “The partnership with M42 underlines ADPHC’s commitment to finding means to better serve the community and to limit the spread of any potential disease that may harm its members. The MoU underscores our acknowledgement that the climate crisis is a health crisis and stemming from our belief in the power of partnerships, we are keen to join forces with all local, regional, and global entities seeking to collaborate toward building a better future.”
Al Hosani also added: “It is significant that this agreement was signed at COP28, where leaders from around the world are converging to address the pressing challenges of our time. For the first time in the history of COP conferences, COP28 is having a “Day for Health”, where the well-being and health of the community are highlighted.”
Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of M42, highlighted the role of innovation towards achieving the UAE’s net-zero goals: “When it comes to the climate impact of the health sector, prevention is key and fewer patients mean fewer emissions. As Principal Health Partner of COP28, we at M42 prioritise prevention, not just cure, and are steadfastly committed to co-designing the sustainable future of health, enabled by preventative and precision health-tech solutions. Initiatives like this help safeguard public health and build a healthier ecosystem for all.”
Notably, at COP28, DoH and ADPHC are working together to host a comprehensive 12-day programme focusing on the intersection of healthcare, climate change and sustainability. The programme includes panel discussions, meetings, presentations, and collaborative conversations, providing a platform for experts and partners from the UAE and around the world.
COP28 will serve as a platform for leaders and experts from around the world to discuss and address critical issues related to climate change, taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre are inviting guests to visit their booth, to get to see their projects and activations. Booth number 59 is located in the Green Zone, within the Technology & Innovation Hub 1.