UNICEF delegation meets KP health adviser to discuss post-flood situation & other health challenges

A high-level delegation from UNICEF, led by Country Head Pernille Ironside, met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Adviser Ihtesham Ali at his office to discuss ongoing health initiatives and post-flood challenges in the province.
The delegation included Chief of Field Office KP Radoslaw Rzehak, Health Team Lead Dr. Inamullah & Nutrition Lead Dr. Ayeen Khan Afridi. Secretary Health Shahidullah Khan was also present during the meeting and welcomed the delegation alongside the health adviser.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the health situation in the province following recent floods, with particular focus on maternal and child health, nutrition, and healthcare infrastructure.
Ihtisham Ali expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its continued support to the provincial health department. UNICEF is currently supporting 450 nutritional sites across KP. The organization is also assisting in the implementation of DHIS 2 in 26 districts, oxygen management in 18 districts, capacity enhancement of 13 newborn care units, and solarization of four secondary-level hospitals under its climate-friendly health system initiative.
Highlighting the provincial government’s priorities, Ali said that in line with the vision of PTI’s founding leader, special attention is being given to health and education. He added that practical steps are being taken to improve basic health facilities in remote districts such as Kohistan and Torghar, while 72 health centers in southern and tribal districts are being made operational.
The adviser further noted that several hospitals are being outsourced to improve maternal and child healthcare services.
Ms. Ironside appreciated the health department’s efforts in establishing nutrition services for pregnant women and children at Afghan holding camp.
Secretary Health Shahidullah Khan informed the delegation that the department is planning to integrate the nutrition program into the regular budget. He said the Planning and Development Department is working on a project with a special focus on reducing stunting among children.
He added that 250 primary care centers are being revamped to provide round-the-clock maternity services. With UNICEF’s support, neonatal ICUs have already been established, and ten more newborn centers are planned for the current fiscal year.
To improve routine immunization, vaccination hours at health centers have been extended. The process of registering newborns immediately after delivery has also been initiated in several hospitals, strengthening the birth dose initiative.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Ali and Mr. Khan presented an honorary shield to the UNICEF Country Head, while UNICEF also presented a shield to the health department in recognition of their partnership.