In District Dera Ismail Khan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Integrated Project for Community-Based Health and Nutrition Interventions left a lasting impact on communities by improving access to essential health and nutrition services. Jointly supported by Nutrition International and Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, the initiative was implemented across seven union councils, focusing on nutrition, early childhood development, immunisation, hygiene, and maternal, newborn, and child health.

One of the most notable examples of change emerged from Union Council Lunda Sharif, where community mobilisers Abdul Wahab and Ambreen Iqbal played a key role in strengthening awareness and improving access to healthcare services. Through door-to-door outreach, community sessions, and referrals to health facilities, they helped families better understand the importance of preventive healthcare and routine immunisation. Their efforts also contributed to addressing vaccine hesitancy within the community.

The initiative contributed to significant improvements in maternal and child health outcomes in the area. In a community of nearly 19,200 people, including 3,320 children under the age of five, immunisation coverage increased substantially, ensuring that a large majority of children received timely vaccinations against preventable diseases. Greater awareness and improved access to healthcare services also supported reductions in infant health complications and maternal health risks.

The story of Lunda Sharif reflects how community-led health interventions can create sustainable change. By empowering local mobilisers and building trust within communities, the initiative helped lay the foundation for healthier and more resilient futures for mothers and children alike.