Benazir Nashunuma Programme

                                 Benazir Nashonuma programme

The Benazir Nashonuma program appears to be a comprehensive intervention aimed at addressing the significant issue of malnutrition in Pakistan, particularly focusing on pregnant and lactating women (PLW) and children under two years of age. Here's a breakdown of its key components and achievements:

 

 Background and Objectives:

- Pakistan faces high rates of malnutrition, ranking as one of the countries with the highest burden in the region.

- The first 1,000 days of a child's life are crucial for laying a strong foundation for their future development.

- Investments in early childhood nutrition are essential for building human capital, which drives economic development.

 

 Primary Objectives:

1. Prevent stunting in children under two years of age.

2. Improve weight gain of pregnant women during pregnancy.

3. Reduce anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies.

4. Enhance awareness of maternal and early child health and nutrition.

5. Decrease the disease burden through improved uptake of health and nutrition services.

6. Prevent low birth weight.

 

 Link with SDGs:

- Good nutrition is highlighted as the single most important and cost-effective means of advancing human well-being, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

 Design Parameters:

- Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) intervention: Providing additional cash to BISP beneficiary families contingent on certain health and nutrition-related commitments.

- Cash transfers are provided per quarter to pregnant and lactating women and their children, with specific amounts allocated based on gender.

- Mothers are required to attend regular antenatal health checks, awareness sessions, consume specialized nutritious food, and ensure their children receive immunizations and health checks.

 

 Project Area and Progress:

- Initially piloted in 14 districts, the program has been expanded to cover 158 districts nationwide, with a network of 512 Nashonuma Centers, including mobile sites.

- The program has reached over 1,275,800 individuals, including 645,800 pregnant women and 630,000 children.

 

The Benazir Nashonuma program seems to be making significant strides in addressing malnutrition by targeting critical periods of early childhood and pregnancy and leveraging conditional cash transfers to incentivize positive health behaviors. Its expansion across the country indicates recognition of its effectiveness and potential for impact in combating malnutrition and improving overall health outcomes.