Mir Salam Jogezai
Quetta: Midwives play a crucial role in reducing maternal and newborn mortality and are considered the backbone of safe childbirth services, said Secretary Health Balochistan, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Panizai, while addressing a ceremony organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Program to mark the International Day of the Midwife.
Speaking at the event, Panizai emphasized that the day is observed worldwide to recognize and honor the dedication, professional commitment, and life-saving contributions of midwives in ensuring safe pregnancies, deliveries, and postnatal care.
The ceremony was attended by Director General Health Dr. Amin Mandokhail, Provincial Head MNCH Dr. Gul Sabeen Ghorezai, UNFPA Provincial Head Saadia Atta, Director Nursing Kulsoom Iqbal, Dr. Ahmed Wali, Dr. Noor Hassan, Dr. Zafar Khosti, and Dr. Zahid Kakar.
Addressing participants, the speakers highlighted that behind every safe delivery is the expertise and tireless effort of a skilled midwife. They noted that midwives are particularly vital in remote and underserved areas of Balochistan, where access to healthcare facilities is limited and their services significantly contribute to improving maternal health, newborn care, and child healthcare outcomes.
The officials reaffirmed the Government of Balochistan’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system by investing in the professional training of midwives, capacity building programs, and the provision of modern medical facilities. These initiatives aim to further enhance maternal and child health services across the province and support efforts to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths.
The event concluded with a candle-lighting ceremony led by Secretary Health Balochistan Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Panizai, Provincial Head MNCH Dr. Gul Sabeen Ghorezai, and other officials. Commemorative shields were also distributed among participants in recognition of their contributions to maternal and newborn healthcare.
