Kozhikode in Kerala Recognized by WHO as an Age-Friendly City.
Awards
In May 2025, Kozhikode city in Kerala officially became a member of the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC).
- This recognition signifies Kozhikode’s commitment to developing inclusive policies, services, and infrastructure that support the well-being of elderly residents—helping them stay healthy, active, and engaged in their later years.
- With this, Kozhikode becomes the second Indian city after Kochi (Kerala) in 2024 and the second city in the WHO South-East Asia Region (SEAR) after Wellawaya in Sri Lanka to join the WHO GNAFCC.
- This is Kozhikode’s second international recognition, following the 2023 UNESCO City of Literature designation, further highlighting the city’s progressive approach to urban development and cultural inclusion.
Main Point :- (i) Kozhikode Corporation earned WHO recognition through the implementation of several age-friendly policies. These include the establishment of daycare centres, creation of safe spaces for elderly engagement, and organization of seminars specifically designed for senior citizens. These initiatives have strengthened the city's support system for the aging population and enhanced their quality of life.
(ii) With its inclusion in the WHO Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC), Kozhikode Corporation will now have access to international best practices and guidance. This membership will help the city further develop elderly-friendly infrastructure and foster an inclusive urban environment that promotes healthy and active aging.
(iii) The WHO Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC), established in 2010, connects cities and organizations globally to foster age-friendly environments. It promotes change through shared practices, global knowledge exchange, and evidence-based solutions. Coordinated by WHO’s SDH department and supported by IFA Canada, the network spans 1,705 cities in 60 countries, covering over 330 million people.
About World Health Organisation (WHO)
Director General (DG) : Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Headquarters : Geneva, Switzerland
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