GAIN – the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition – organised a partnership discussion “Innovative Partnerships to Improve Maternal and Child Nutrition in Bangladesh” on 13th February 2011 in Dhaka. The conference was held to fight against maternal and child mal-nutrition by working together BRAC and GAIN aim to use their partnership to “fight against maternal and child mal- nutrition” (Executive Director for Gain March Van Ameringen). The discussion was attended by representative of various government ministries, international organizations, NGOs and educational institutions. Its focus was on a local initiative- “Pustikona” a vitamin & mineral product produced by Renata Ltd. and distributed by BRAC, which enabled more than 50% children of Bangladesh to access vital nutrition supplements. BRAC is covering all 64 districts in Bangladesh with its network of 80,000 health volunteers and 7,978 health workers, who are working tirelessly to improve Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health by distribution holistic health care services.
Building local momentum to focus on maternal and child health
During an antenatal check up that is set up in a village home, Jhorna Akther (30 years old), a BRAC Community Health Worker (CHW) measures Khatidja Akther’s height who is pregnant for the first time. Commenting on her work and responsibilities, Jhorna said, “What I do saves lives of women who have no access to health care during emergencies. I create awareness amongst women about danger signs to watch for during pregnancy. I also help ensure that they are healthy and safe. I save thousands of lives. I love my work.” Gazipur. Bangladesh.