The Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene paid a vibrant tribute to its most deserving employees. Through its Human Resources Department, the Ministry, under the chairmanship of Dr. Ibrahima Sy, organized a formal awards ceremony on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department of the Fann National University Hospital Center.

An opportunity for the State of Senegal to recognize the commitment, dedication and sacrifices of women and men who have devoted their careers to the service of public health and the nation.

70 officers decorated for their exemplary commitment

In total, 70 health workers were elevated to the rank of Knight of the National Order of Merit and of the National Order of the Lion, two major honorary distinctions awarded by the Minister of Health, delegated by the President of the Republic, to reward outstanding services rendered to the nation.

The recipients, from different components of the health system, welcomed this recognition with emotion and pride, seeing it as the culmination of many years of work often accomplished in difficult conditions.

A tribute to the entire national healthcare system

In his address, Dr. Ibrahima Sy emphasized the solemn and symbolic nature of this distinction. "It is with great honor and deep emotion that I speak on this day dedicated to recognizing women and men whose commitment, loyalty, and high sense of public service have left a lasting mark on our healthcare system," he declared.

The minister noted that the decorated staff members come from all sectors of the healthcare system: hospitals, health districts, central services, and training and research institutions, encompassing medical, paramedical, technical, administrative, and support personnel. "Through you, it is the collective commitment of the entire national healthcare system that is being honored," he emphasized.

Significant progress has been made , despite complex challenges.

The Minister of Health highlighted the significant progress made thanks to the commitment of staff, including improvements in healthcare provision, strengthening of human resources, advances in the management of chronic diseases and increased capacity to respond to health emergencies.

He also welcomed Senegal's achievement of Maturity Level 3 in pharmaceutical regulation, a strategic achievement that strengthens health sovereignty and drug safety.

A duty to remember and a renewed commitment

Dr. Sy also paid tribute to the deceased healthcare workers, honoring their memory and expressing the State's solidarity with those currently bedridden. "This distinction honors you, but it also commits you to pursuing your mission in service to Senegal with the same rigor and sense of duty," he concluded.

Through this ceremony, the Ministry of Health reaffirms its commitment to valuing merit, promoting excellence and recognizing the essential contribution of health workers to preserving life, dignity and the confidence of the population.