ICM Strengthens Collaboration with the Midwifery Association of Pakistan
ICM recently conducted its first official visit to Pakistan from 28-31 January to strengthen collaboration with the Midwifery Association of Pakistan (MAP). The visit focused on developing a strategic action plan to advance midwifery services and advocacy in the country as part of a Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) funded project aimed at Strengthening Local Midwifery Associations.
ICM’s delegation, including members of our Operations and Finance and Programmes and Partnerships teams, met with MAP leadership and key stakeholders to present the findings of the Membership Association Assessment Checklist (MAAC) Report. The report provided a detailed assessment of MAP’s strengths, areas for growth, and key recommendations to support the development of a strong and sustainable midwifery association.
Strengthening MAP’s Capacity
During a two-day workshop, ICM presented the MAAC report and engaged in discussions about MAP’s priorities and future direction. MAP leadership reviewed the recommendations and aligned on key next steps to strengthen the association’s role in midwifery advocacy. A key component of the workshop was a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis training, designed to equip MAP Board Members with strategic planning skills. This session enabled MAP to critically assess its position and develop an action plan with clear objectives and timelines.
A major focus of our discussions was strengthening MAP’s Secretariat and building its capacity to receive and manage external funding. This is a crucial step in enabling MAP to advocate more effectively for midwives and midwifery in Pakistan. Strengthening our member associations is core to ICM’s mission, ensuring that midwives have the professional support they need to provide high-quality care to women and newborns.
Strengthening Partnerships for Midwifery in Pakistan
Beyond our work with MAP, we met with representatives from the Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery (AKU-SONAM), the Lady Dufferin Community Midwifery School of Karachi, and UNFPA Karachi. These discussions focused on strengthening partnerships to support midwifery education, workforce development, and professional advancement.
A Bright Future for Midwifery in Pakistan
Our visit to Pakistan marked the start of a strengthened collaboration between ICM and MAP. The in-person engagement allowed us to gain deeper insights into the realities midwives face, the challenges MAP encounters, and the opportunities for growth. It also reinforced the importance of ongoing support and partnership in ensuring that MAP can advocate effectively for midwives and the communities they serve.
With a clear roadmap in place, MAP is now well-positioned to take the next steps in its development. We look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting MAP as it works to strengthen midwifery in Pakistan. By working together, we can ensure that midwives have the recognition, resources, and support they need to provide life-saving care to women and newborns across the country.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Midwifery Association of Pakistan for their warm hospitality and dedication throughout our visit. Their commitment to strengthening midwifery in Pakistan was evident in every discussion, and their leadership in advancing midwifery advocacy is truly commendable. We also appreciate the time and insights shared by the educators, students, and stakeholders who welcomed us and contributed to meaningful conversations about the future of midwifery in the country.
