The U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funded Building Healthy Families (BHF) project in collaboration with the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordinationconducted a stimulating panel discussion in Islamabad to commemorate World Population Day. The panelists explored the critical role of data in informing investments for family planning initiatives, in sync with the theme of World Population Day 2024, “Embracing the power of inclusive data towards a resilient and equitable future for all.”
The discussion featured prominent experts Dr. Luay Shabaneh, Representative to Pakistan, UNFPA Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to PM on Health, M/o NHSRC Dr. Zeba Satthar, Country Director, Population Council Dr. Syed Azizur Rab, Chief Executive Officer, Greenstar Social Marketing Pakistan Limited.
Moderated by Fayyaz Ahmad Khan, Social and Behavior Change Specialist of Pathfinder International, the panelists emphasized the importance of utilizing accurate and inclusive data to identify population trends, prioritize resource allocation, and develop targeted family planning programs. Discussions highlighted the economic impact of population growth and underscored the need for evidence-based strategies to promote reproductive health and well-being.
The event served as a platform for raising awareness about population challenges and fostering collaboration among stakeholders for effective family planning interventions. The Ministry of National Health Services and partnering organizations remain committed to utilizing data-driven approaches to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all Pakistanis.
USAID’s BHF project is implemented by Pathfinder International and is currently operating in 19 districts of Sindh and 6 districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The program provides technical assistance to the provincial government to expand access to and use of essential health services, including high-quality voluntary and informed family planning and maternal, newborn, and child health services to improve health outcomes for some of the most vulnerable populations.
Editor: Kamran Raja