ISLAMABAD: The United Nations World Food Program and Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning Development & Special Initiatives have forged a crucial partnership to address child malnutrition and enhance flood response in the country.
This collaboration materialized during a meeting between the caretaker Minister for Planning Development & Special Initiatives, Muhammad Sami Saeed, and the newly-appointed Country Director of the UN World Food Program in Pakistan, Ms. Coco Ushiyama.
The meeting centered on key themes of food security policy, stunting prevention, education, and emergency response for flood-affected regions. High-ranking officials from the Planning Ministry and the World Food Program were also in attendance.
Stunting, a significant concern in Pakistan, was underscored by Planning Minister Mohammad Sami Saeed, who emphasized the Government of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to combat malnutrition. Collaboration was highlighted as the key to addressing this issue, with a focus on the groundbreaking “25 Billion Project for Out-of-School Children.” This initiative will provide school meals in 50 underprivileged districts, ensuring access to nutritious food for vulnerable children, thereby addressing the malnutrition crisis.
Another pivotal program discussed was the uplift of the nation’s poorest 20 districts, part of the Public Sector Development Program. This effort aims to bring these underdeveloped regions on par with more prosperous areas. The Planning Minister stressed the significance of united efforts to guarantee the success of these initiatives.
Emergency response strategies for regions affected by flooding were also a vital topic of discussion, emphasizing the importance of climate-resilient and adaptable policies and infrastructure. Minister Saeed assured Ms. Coco Ushiyama of the complete support and cooperation of the Government of Pakistan, with special attention to the Balochistan region, which endured severe impacts from the 2022 floods.
In the wake of these discussions, both Ms. Coco Ushiyama and the Planning Minister expressed their steadfast commitment to work together to address these pressing concerns. Their goal is to make a positive impact on food security, malnutrition, and emergency response in Pakistan, emphasizing the power of collaborative action.
