Pakistan’s maternal and child mortality rates are among the highest in South Asia. Despite the Government of Pakistan (GoP) targeting improvements in maternal and child health over the last 15 years, maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity remain significant challenges. An estimated 30,000 women die each year because of complications during pregnancy and delivery – the equivalent of one woman dying every 20 minutes.

 

Nearly all maternal deaths worldwide are preventable. The Maternal and Newborn Health Programme Research and Advocacy Fund (RAF) recognises that policies implemented accountably through interventions that aim to improve health outcomes for poor and marginalised women and children can reduce the premature death of women in pregnancy and childbirth and increase their chances of survival. And when they survive, their families, communities and countries thrive. It’s a virtuous circle.

 

RAF is working to help change the future for Pakistan’s women and newborns and their families alongside other stakeholders to help put Pakistan on track for MDG 4 and 5.