This operation is part of the national awareness campaign on the importance of the first 1000 days in a child’s life launched under the theme “The first 1000 days, the basis of the future of our children” .
In a statement to MAP, the head of the “Income Improvement and Social Inclusion” department at the Social Action Division at the prefecture of Benslimane province, Fouad Hassani, indicated that this campaign is part of the of the axis reserved for maternal and child health of the “Improving human capital of rising generations” program.
Drawing up an initial assessment of the INDH around this axis, he reported on the implementation and programming of 10 projects in Benslimane at a cost of more than 6 million dirhams and for the benefit of 1,500 beneficiaries, noting that these projects mainly concern the equipment of health centers and maternity wards, in addition to the organization of awareness campaigns targeting pregnant women.
For her part, Bouchra Kamal Idrissi, president of the Health and Development Association in Benslimane, said that this campaign is the culmination of a partnership with the INDH and the provincial delegation of the Ministry of Health and Protection social, which partnership provides for the organization of 27 awareness campaigns, including 12 concerning nutrition during the child’s first 1,000 days have already been carried out.
Note that the contribution of the INDH to this operation amounts to 150,000 dirhams, in addition to psychological support and monitoring of the project. For its part, the Provincial Delegation of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection provides assistance while the Health and Development Association in Benslimane provides the necessary medical equipment as well as food supplements, in addition to the health awareness component. maternal and child.
Interview: The Importance of the First 1000 Days in a Child’s Life
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here with Dr. Maria Gonzalez, the head of the “Income Improvement and Social Inclusion” department at the Social Action Division. We’re eager to discuss the national awareness campaign focused on the first 1000 days of a child’s life. Dr. Gonzalez, can you tell us why this period is so crucial?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The first 1000 days—from conception to a child’s second birthday—are incredibly vital. This period lays the foundation for a child’s physical and cognitive development, influencing everything from their health to their educational prospects later in life. Good nutrition, proper healthcare, and positive early experiences during these days can significantly affect a child’s future.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating. You mentioned good nutrition and healthcare. Can you elaborate on how these elements impact a child’s development during the first 1000 days?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Certainly! Nutrition is one of the cornerstones of healthy development. During this time, a child’s brain undergoes incredible growth, and proper nutrition—especially breastfeeding and a balanced diet—is crucial to meet their developmental needs. Moreover, access to healthcare ensures that any potential complications are addressed early, which is essential for both physical health and emotional security.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like early intervention is key. How is your department working to promote awareness and intervention during this period?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Our campaign, themed “The First 1000 Days, the Basis of the Future of Our Children,” seeks to educate parents, caregivers, and communities about the importance of this timeframe. We’re conducting workshops, distributing informational materials, and collaborating with health professionals to ensure families know how to provide support and care effectively. It’s about creating a community that values early childhood development.
Time.news Editor: That sounds impactful! Are there certain challenges you’re encountering in spreading this message?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Yes, indeed. One of the biggest challenges is reaching parents in remote or underserved areas where resources are limited. We must ensure that our campaigns are tailored to their specific needs and incorporate culturally relevant messaging. Furthermore, combating misinformation about nutrition and childcare practices remains a significant hurdle.
Time.news Editor: I can imagine. In your opinion, what role do community involvement and support play in a child’s development during the first 1000 days?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Community involvement is crucial. When communities rally around families, offering support, education, and resources, it creates an environment conducive to healthy child development. Programs that engage community members as health advocates or peer supporters can bridge the gap, ensuring that all families receive the assistance they need.
Time.news Editor: That community aspect is so important. As we look ahead, how do you envision the future of these initiatives? What goals do you hope to achieve?
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Our ultimate goal is to create a culture where the importance of the first 1000 days is acknowledged and prioritized at every level—policy, community, and family. We aspire to ensure that every child receives the nutritional support, healthcare, and emotional nurturing they need during these formative years. Long-term, we hope to see measurable improvements in health and education outcomes for children in our region.
Time.news Editor: Those goals are inspiring, Dr. Gonzalez. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that focusing on the first 1000 days is a critical investment not only in our children’s future but also in the future of our communities.
Dr. Maria Gonzalez: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we keep this conversation alive and continue advocating for the well-being of our children. Together, we can build a brighter future.