Cook Islands made history this week when Vainetutai Rose Toki-Brown, the country’s Minister for Health, became the first female to chair a regional World Health Organization (WHO) meeting.

Toki-Brown officially assumed her role as the chairperson at the 75^th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines, on Monday (local time).

She made history as the first female chairperson of the WHO Regional Committee Meeting.

In her opening address, she shared traditional wisdoms, reminding the delegates to stay alert and committed through times of both distress and peace.

The MP from Atiu addressed various health challenges affecting the region while also stressing on the importance of unity, vigilance and resilience.

Toki-Brown also acknowledged the Cook Islands government, her home island of Enuamanu (Atiu), and her electorate Teenui e Mapumai, for the support and trust as she embarks on the new journey.

“This is an honour not only for me but for my country. I will do my best to manage our discussions well and lead with purpose. Together, we must weave a collective vision that ensures the health and well-being of the 1.9 billion people of the Western Pacific region,” she said.

Toki-Brown also highlighted the importance of mutual accountability between WHO and member states, especially through the new regional vision, “Weaving Health for Families, Communities, and Societies” in the Western Pacific Region.

“This vision requires all of us to come together, like the weaving of a mat, to strengthen the health of our people,” she said.

Toki-Brown thanked the delegates for their trust and confidence in electing her as chairperson.

“This is a special year. It is the first Regional Committee meeting with the new Regional Director, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, at the helm, and we have a lot of important ground to cover,” she said.

The Minister urged the participants, which includes health ministers, senior officials and key partners across the Western Pacific, to work together “with one mind and one purpose”.

“I know that you are all committed to the health of this Region, and I know you agree on the value of us convening here as members of the World Health Organization. The success of our new regional vision relies upon the mutual accountability of Member States and WHO. Thank you again for your confidence in electing me as chair of this important meeting. I am very much looking forward to our discussions.

“No reira kia ka to rama, ei toki tarai enua ite arataki'anga I to tatou ititangata,” she added which means, “May your light shine, and your tool sharpened to lead our nations and people forward.”

Viet Nam Vice Minister of Health, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, was elected vice-chairperson.

The 75^th session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific continues throughout the week, with discussions and outcomes expected to shape the future of health policy in the region.

The week-long agenda covers critical health priorities, including:

• Health Financing for Universal Health Coverage: Delegates will review a draft regional framework to strengthen health financing policies, addressing growing financial hardships faced by populations when accessing care.

• Digital Health Innovations: With the rapid rise of telemedicine, mobile health apps, and AI-driven diagnostics, the session will explore renewing the Regional Action Agenda on e-Health to meet modern needs.

• Climate Resilience in Health Systems: A panel discussion highlighted how member states are increasing healthcare facility resilience to climate change impacts through innovative solutions and international collaboration.

• Primary Health Care Transformation: Revisiting the framework adopted two years ago, discussions will focus on aligning national health systems with primary healthcare principles to achieve universal health care and sustainable development goals.

• Oral Health as a Priority: With over 800 million people in the region affected by oral diseases, the session will explore strategies to integrate oral health into primary care and promote prevention through community involvement.

The session also highlighted the WHO’s first Investment Round, launched to secure sustainable resources for WHO’s core work over the next four years, culminating at the G20 Leaders’ Summit chaired by Brazilian President Lula da 'Silva.

Toki-Brown encouraged member states to demonstrate their commitment during a special event later in the week, hinting at exciting pledges already in motion.

• Talaia Mika/Office of the PM