NourishMaa Campaign Launched to Improve Maternal Nutrition

The Nutrition International and Department of Health Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recently organized a provincial consultation meeting in Peshawar to address maternal nutrition policies and economic care. The meeting united stakeholders from various sectors to discuss maternal nutrition programs, challenges, and implementation strategies.

One significant outcome was the initiation of the 'NourishMaa' campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, focusing on enhancing maternal nutrition through healthcare provider training. The Minister for Health KP stressed the need for collaborative efforts to combat maternal malnutrition and improve interventions.

Highlighting data from the National Nutrition Survey 2018, the minister underscored the triple burden of malnutrition faced by women in the province. The government's approach, aligned with the NourishMaa campaign, emphasizes women-centric and equity-based strategies.

Implemented by Nutrition International in partnership with health departments, the campaign operates in districts across Sindh and Punjab, with plans for expansion. Its objectives include raising awareness, enhancing healthcare provider capabilities, and integrating nutrition counseling into routine practices.

Nutrition International's initiatives in Pakistan encompass research, program implementation, policy advocacy, and capacity building to advance maternal nutrition. Dr. Irfan Ullah, Deputy Country Director, stressed the importance of improving healthcare providers' knowledge for maternal nutrition support.

Insights from the campaign highlight the necessity of integrating maternal nutrition into healthcare curriculums and enhancing accountability for service delivery. The 'NourishMaa' campaign marks a crucial step towards improving maternal nutrition in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing collaboration and sustainable interventions.