Muscat – Dr Aziza Abdallah al Ghafri, Consultant and Head of Radiology Department at Ibri Hospital, has brought pride to Oman by being recognised in the third edition of Arab Government Excellence Award under the category of Best Arab Government Female Employee.

Held by Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO) in collaboration with United Arab Emirates under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the award recognises outstanding achievements in government service.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Dr Aziza expressed her joy and pride in receiving the award, which she described as the culmination of her professional career filled with significant achievements and challenges. “This award is not only a recognition of my personal efforts but also a testament to the collective work in improving the quality of government services provided to citizens,” she stated.

The ceremony took place on November 28 at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo. This year, the competition saw a record-breaking 13,000 participants from across the Arab world.

Dr Aziza, who has headed the Radiology Department at Ibri Hospital since 2013, has been instrumental in its transformation. She focused on enhancing the department’s capabilities by expanding staff, upgrading equipment, and introducing innovative services like cardiac radiology, which has helped reduce waiting time in central hospitals.

One of her most significant accomplishments is a breast screening unit project, an integrated facility sponsored by Sohar Aluminium. The unit aims to provide women a private and comfortable environment for breast screening, addressing a critical gap in the healthcare system. “From an idea on paper to reality, this project is something I am deeply proud of. The building is now ready, and we plan to open it next year,” Dr Aziza said.

Her efforts in breast cancer awareness and screening have had a significant impact with a record number of diagnosed cases – 36 registered in 2024 compared to 25 a year earlier – in Ibri Hospital. Dr Aziza has worked tirelessly to educate women about the importance of annual screenings and monthly self-examinations starting from age 15, emphasising the value of early detection in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Looking ahead, Dr Aziza aims to continue her work to improve healthcare in Oman, publish more research papers and expand her volunteer work across the sultanate. She dedicated her award to Oman, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Honourable Lady Sayyida Ahad bint Abdullah bin Hamed al Busaidi, her parents, and the entire health sector and government workforce in Oman.