Sindh Food Authority (SFA) is playing a vital role in providing safe and quality food to the people of Sindh, particularly in supporting early childhood development (ECD). This was highlighted by SFA’s Director General, Agha FakharHussain, during the 3rd Meeting of the Technical Working Group for Early Childhood Development, organized by the Taskforce Secretariat for Nutrition-Planning & Development with support from UNICEF.
The Nurturing Care Framework, which focuses on the critical period from pregnancy to 8 years of age, underscores an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to childcare. This includes components such as health, nutrition, hygiene, early learning, child safety, protection, early stimulation, and positive parenting. Representatives from the SFA Technical Wing, Dr. Seema Ashraf and Nutrition Expert Dr. Naveed Bhutto, emphasized the agency’s commitment to ECD. Under the guidance of DG Agha FakharHussain, the SFA ensures the provision of safe and nutritious food, which is essential for the holistic development of young children. “SFA supports ECD by implementing and enforcing food safety laws, conducting inspections, licensing food establishments, and ensuring quality control,” they stated.
“Through consumer awareness education, setting and harmonizing standards with Pakistan Standards, inter-sectoral collaboration, and efficient complaint handling, SFA helps create a healthy food environment that nurtures young children.” The SFA has already collaborated with national and international NGOs and expressed its willingness to use this platform to further national causes related to food safety and nutrition. This meeting reflects SFA’s proactive stance in aligning with global and national initiatives to enhance the quality of life.
