Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that the health and well-being of mothers and children is fundamental to national development, stressing that investment in maternal, newborn and child health is an investment in Pakistan’s human capital and future.
Addressing the launch ceremony of the National Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Social and Behaviour Change Communication Campaign as Chief Guest, the Chairman congratulated the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination and UNICEF Pakistan, and appreciated the contributions of development partners, healthcare professionals, academia and civil society.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said healthy mothers and children are the foundation of strong families, productive communities and a resilient Pakistan. He noted that Pakistan has made progress in key health indicators, with infant mortality declining to 47 per 1,000 live births and the maternal mortality ratio improving to 186 per 100,000 live births. However, significant challenges remain in ensuring timely, affordable and quality maternal and newborn healthcare.
Highlighting the newly launched campaign, he said it promotes three simple but potentially life-saving behaviours: timely antenatal care, skilled birth attendance and essential newborn care. “The right information, delivered at the right time, can save lives,” he said.
The Chairman stressed that awareness must be complemented by quality healthcare services, trained health workers, effective referral systems and affordable treatment. He also highlighted the importance of initiatives such as the Benazir Nashonuma Programme, particularly for pregnant and lactating women and children during the critical first 1,000 days of life. He underscored Parliament’s role in strengthening maternal and child healthcare policies, legislation and oversight, with special attention to women and children in remote and underserved areas and those affected by poverty, displacement and climate-related emergencies.
