Thousands of women and new-borns die during pregnancy and childbirth each year in Pakistan. Identifying danger signs during pregnancy and the presence of skilled birth attendants during delivery could prevent many of these deaths. "Maternal and new-born deaths can be prevented if women and their families have better knowledge of nutrition, immunisation, and prenatal care," said US Consul General Brian Heath during the launching ceremony of the programme.
That is why the US Agency for International Development (USAID) is launching two TV commercials and a communication toolkit and pictorial booklet to better inform mothers on pregnancy and childbirth, said the US Consul General.The Centre for Communication Programs (CCP) and Jhpiego -affiliates of Johns Hopkins University in the United States - worked together with the Sindh Health and Population departments as part of USAID's Maternal Child Health Program to achieve these aims, he said.
Sindh Health Minister Jam Mehtab Dahar expressed his appreciation to the US Government. "USAID and its Maternal and Child Health program has been instrumental in improving maternal and child health services in Sindh," he said. Saleem Raza, Saeed Mangnejo, Shuaib Khan, CCP party chief and Farid Midhet, Country Director, Jhpiego as well as representatives from USAID, international organisations and Sindh government officials were also present.-PR