The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has recently joined forces with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) to address the pressing issue of child malnutrition in Pakistan. This collaboration falls under the Benazir Nashonuma Programme, a government initiative aimed at enhancing the health and nutrition of mothers and children throughout the nation.
Key Partnerships for Tackling Malnutrition
BISP has formalized two essential agreements to combat malnutrition, particularly focusing on children affected by Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and their mothers.
| Partnership | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| UNICEF | 1. Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) 2. Provision of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) |
| WHO | Management of stabilization centers within District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs) |
These agreements were signed by key representatives from BISP, UNICEF, and WHO, highlighting a collective commitment to improving nutrition and healthcare.
Objectives of the Partnership
The primary goals of the BISP partnerships with UNICEF and WHO include:
- Community Awareness: Raising awareness about malnutrition and prevention strategies at the community level.
- Nutrition Support: Delivering essential nutritional assistance to mothers and children in critical need.
- Specialized Treatment: Providing targeted care for children suffering from malnutrition, especially those with medical complications.
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UNICEF’s Role in the Fight Against Malnutrition
Under the collaboration with UNICEF, the focus is on two major areas:
- Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC): This initiative aims to educate communities on the significance of nutrition and strategies to avert malnutrition.
- Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF): UNICEF will supply therapeutic food designed to facilitate the recovery of severely malnourished children.
UNICEF’s Statement
A UNICEF representative stated, “Children living in poor communities and households must be prioritized in nutrition and social protection programs to ensure they can survive, grow, and reach their full potential.”
WHO’s Role in Providing Medical Care
The WHO’s contribution involves establishing and managing stabilization centers in District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs) for children experiencing SAM with complications. These centers will provide essential medical care and interventions.
WHO’s Statement
A WHO official remarked, “WHO is proud to partner with BISP in providing life-saving treatment to 75,000 severely malnourished children with medical complications. We are also promoting breastfeeding as a key strategy to prevent stunting.”
BISP’s Commitment to Child and Mother Health
BISP Secretary Amer Ali Ahmad underscored that this partnership is a landmark achievement in enhancing the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. BISP is dedicated to working alongside UNICEF and WHO to ensure that those most in need receive critical support and care.
Conclusion
The collaboration between BISP, UNICEF, and WHO marks a significant advancement in combating child and maternal malnutrition in Pakistan. By implementing initiatives like Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC), providing Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), and establishing stabilization centers, this partnership aims to offer life-saving nutrition support and medical care to those who require it most. By focusing on the most vulnerable communities, the Benazir Nashonuma Programme not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also fosters a healthier future for mothers and children throughout the country. This collective effort exemplifies the impact of coordinated actions in achieving substantial improvements in health and nutrition within Pakistan’s underprivileged communities.
