Advancing Midwifery: Insights from MAP’s Board Meeting, 2024

The Midwifery Association of Pakistan (MAP) transitioned to new leadership in mid-2024, marked by a pivotal face-to-face meeting at Mehran Hotel Karachi from June 4-6. Dr. Rafat Jan, now President, along with esteemed board members, convened to review past achievements and address forthcoming challenges.

The three-day agenda was robust, addressing critical topics essential to advancing midwifery’s role nationally. Highlights included:

Day One: Dr. Sadia Paul led discussions on future capacity building for midwives, focusing on postpartum hemorrhage management and emergency obstetric care. Dr. Zara Ladhani outlined the National Midwifery Strategic Direction, setting the groundwork for strategic planning.

Day Two: Attention turned to nutrition initiatives combating anemia, featuring insights from Dr. Hafeezullah Ghambhir (UNICEF) and Dr. Syed Kamal Asghar. The day culminated in strategic planning sessions led by MAP board members.

Day Three: Dr. Naila (UNFPA) presented actionable provincial midwifery plans, while Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho (Minister of Health & Population Welfare, Sindh) lauded midwives’ contributions to health coverage goals. Discussions focused on future strategies and collaborations.

MAP’s Strategic Plan for 2024-2026, aligned with international standards and emphasizing readiness for humanitarian and climate crises, promises to elevate midwifery’s impact globally.

Join us in shaping the National Action Plan for Midwifery, as we enhance standards and empower midwives nationwide.

On the frontline of maternal health: Insights from the MAP Board Meeting 2024.

As a tutor nurse and executive board member of the Midwifery Association of Pakistan (MAP), representing Balochistan, I’m excited to share highlights from our recent meeting held from June 4th to 6th, 2024. This event marked a significant milestone in our mission to enhance the status of midwives in Pakistan.

The meeting kicked off with a welcome session led by Dr. Rafat Jan, President of MAP, followed by a vital discussion on future collaborations for midwife capacity building led by Dr. Sadia Paul.

Dr. Zahra Ladhani outlined the National Midwifery Strategic Direction, aligning our goals with national strategies, while Dr. Rafat Jan and Gloria provided insights into MAP’s structure and financial overview.

Enhancements to MAP’s website and social media presence were discussed by Bohra Developers, concluding a successful day.

The second day focused on nutrition initiatives, UNICEF’s initiatives, family planning, and strategic planning sessions with board members, concluding with updates on ongoing MAP activities.

The final day included discussions on board members’ representation at events, UNFPA’s action plan for provincial midwifery initiatives, collaboration strategies, and future projects, culminating in a surprise visit from Provincial Minister of Health for Sindh, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho.

Dr. Rafat Jan proposed innovative strategies for midwifery-led units and low-cost birthing centers, wrapping up with discussions on midwives’ connections and learning needs, and expressing gratitude to UNFPA and HSA for their support.

In conclusion, the MAP Board Meeting 2024 was a significant step in enhancing midwifery services in Pakistan. Together, we’ve strengthened the midwifery community, ensuring better maternal and newborn health nationwide. Stay tuned for more updates and continue supporting us in our journey of empowerment and growth.