DawnMedia to host ‘Act for Nutrition’

Pakistan is grappling with one of the most pressing development challenges, and DawnMedia is set to host a crucial national conference on malnutrition and stunting. The ‘Act for Nutrition’ conference will be held on September 2nd and 3rd at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad. The event aims to shed light on the urgent issue of malnutrition in the country, acknowledging that it is not merely a health concern but an economic, governance, and developmental challenge.

According to DawnMedia, approximately 40% of children under five years of age in Pakistan are stunted, and the nation holds one of the highest child malnutrition rates globally. The underlying factors contributing to this crisis include maternal malnutrition, widespread micronutrient deficiencies, food insecurity, inadequate infant feeding practices, rapid population growth, and persistent poverty. These issues perpetuate a cycle of deprivation that spans generations.

The economic consequences of malnutrition in Pakistan amount to nearly $17 billion annually. By recognizing nutrition as a fundamental economic, governance, and developmental issue rather than solely a health concern, 'Act for Nutrition' seeks to elevate malnutrition from a fragmented public health concern to a national development priority.

The conference will convene policymakers, development partners, healthcare professionals, economists, academics, civil society organizations, humanitarian agencies, and the private sector to engage in evidence-based dialogue over the course of two days.

The conference will explore the country's nutrition landscape through interconnected perspectives, focusing on poverty, health, education, climate resilience, governance, and human rights. Key partners for the conference include the Sindh health ministry, the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and English Biscuit Manufacturers. Knowledge partners such as Globesight, International Research Force, and the Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health Research Network will contribute their expertise to enhance the dialogue surrounding nutrition and child development in Pakistan.

DawnMedia emphasizes that 'Act for Nutrition' signifies the commencement of a long-term national movement. The organization envisions investing in maternal and child nutrition as one of the most impactful investments Pakistan can make for future prosperity, resilience, and human capital.