ISLAMABAD: A recent report issued by the World Bank on food security of children in Pakistan has revealed that over 40 per cent children in Pakistan are facing food insecurity.
The report highlights the concerning state of child health in the country, where 5-year-olds and younger children lack access to clean water and basic facilities.
The report emphasizes the critical importance of the first 1,000 days after birth for a child’s mental development.
During this period, approximately 80% of a child’s brain is formed. However, in Pakistan, children under the age of 5 often face malnutrition and lack access to clean water.
The World Bank has stated that 45% of child mortality in Pakistan under the age of 5 is attributed to insufficient food intake.
Malnourished children typically resort to eating soil that may contain livestock waste.
The World Bank calls for the collection of comprehensive data on food insecurity in Pakistan and the immediate initiation of programs to address child nutrition.
The report suggests that federal and provincial authorities should prioritize programs for child health in Pakistan and allocate an annual budget of 3 to 4 billion dollars for the next 15 years.
This situation underscores the urgent need to address food security and child health issues in Pakistan to ensure a brighter future for its young population.
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