Islamabad: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani highlighted the critical importance of maternal and child health for national progress, advocating for increased investment in this sector as essential for building Pakistan’s human capital. He addressed these points during the launch of the National Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Social and Behaviour Change Communication Campaign, emphasizing that healthy mothers and children are fundamental to resilient communities and a strong nation.

According to Senate of Pakistan, Gilani congratulated the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, UNICEF Pakistan, and other contributors to the campaign. He noted Pakistan’s progress in health indicators, such as a decline in infant mortality to 47 per 1,000 live births and an improvement in the maternal mortality ratio to 186 per 100,000 live births. However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges in providing timely, affordable, and quality healthcare.

The newly launched campaign aims to promote timely antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and essential newborn care. Gilani stressed the need for information to be paired with quality healthcare services, trained workers, and effective referral systems. He also highlighted initiatives like the Benazir Nashonuma Programme, which supports pregnant and lactating women and children during the first 1,000 days of life.

The Chairman called on Parliament to strengthen healthcare policies and oversight, particularly for women and children in underserved areas. He commended UNICEF Pakistan for its partnership and urged coordinated efforts to ensure sustainable improvements in maternal and child health. The event was attended by Federal Minister Syed Mustufa Kamal, UNICEF’s Pernille Ironside, and other key stakeholders.