Key Stakeholder Message: Md. Mamunur Rashid

Md. Mamunur Rashid,Joint Secretary (WHO Health Section), Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare:  A resilient healthcare system extends beyond the delivery of clinical services; it also requires effective systems for managing healthcare waste safely and sustainably. Improper medical waste management poses significant risks to public health, environmental safety, and infection prevention efforts. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action across sectors and institutions.

The Government of Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening healthcare waste management through policy development, institutional capacity building, and service improvements. Ongoing initiatives within medical college hospitals and district hospitals are generating valuable lessons that can inform the development of a comprehensive national approach. However, achieving sustainable progress will require stronger collaboration between the health and environment sectors, local government institutions, healthcare providers, and private-sector partners.

I appreciate the Bangladesh Urban Health Network (BUHN) for facilitating evidence-based dialogue on this important issue. Platforms such as BUHN play a vital role in promoting knowledge exchange, stakeholder engagement, and collective action. By working together, we can integrate medical waste management into broader health system strengthening efforts and contribute to healthier, safer, and more sustainable cities across Bangladesh.