In more than two decades working as a UNICEF official, it is very difficult to define the moments in which I have felt most proud, because all the performance I have had has been dedicated to protecting the health of boys and girls.
Each cycle of cooperation has been closely related to providing support so that the country could have nutritional supplements for pregnant women and for girls and boys. UNICEF played a key role in promoting the use of nutritional supplements until they became part of the basic medication table in the country. The fortification of fruit purees for babies was another important milestone, accompanied by the UNICEF Committee of the Balearic Islands through the Spanish UNICEF Committee.
Another very important line of cooperation action was the strengthening of maternity homes in the eastern region of the country. These health institutions at the community level had the objective of ensuring institutional delivery, but as the country transformed and perfected the National Health System, homes became vital centers to ensure a good pregnancy and childbirth.
The creation of the network of human milk banks was also a significant achievement in cooperation. Fourteen were created in nine provinces of the country, along with the certification and recertification process of “Baby and Mother Friendly” hospitals as part of the strategy for the protection and promotion of breastfeeding.
Cooperative actions were also aimed at supporting and cooperating in obstetric emergencies. Today, protocols for obstetric complications in pregnant and postpartum women are already available. Support to the national immunization program, acquisition of vaccines, and strengthening of technical capacities of professionals in charge of the Expanded Vaccine Program have been important contributions.
With the arrival of COVID-19, UNICEF had to support the National Health System in responding to the pandemic, mobilizing resources for vaccination efforts. This included strengthening the cold chain and acquiring refrigerators prequalified by the WHO, with support from the Government of Japan.
Additionally, support for neonatology services and the strengthening of Primary Health Care have been priorities for UNICEF, ensuring quality childcare for the growth and development of children.
Overall, the dedication and commitment of UNICEF officials have led to significant advancements in protecting the health and well-being of children in the country.