Afghanistan Afghan Public Health Institute Strategic Plan - ianphi

The main objectives of the Afghanistan National Development Strategy (ANDS) are to: reduce poverty,improve human development indicators, promote sustainable economic development (with a focus onthe private sector), and to make significant progress toward meeting the Millennium Development Goals(MDGs). The HNSS (2008‐2013) set targets for 2013 to address the ANDS objectives that are all reflectedin the “Desired Results for 2015” section of this document. These targets have been updated in this newStrategic Plan based on achievements to date and thoughtful projections. The MoPH Strategic Planincludes a number of SDs and Priority Interventions that will contribute toward meeting the MDGsrelated to: reducing maternal mortality, reducing under 5 mortality and increasing immunizationcoverage.The urgent need to devote increased attention and resources to improving the nutritional status ofAfghans has been recognized since the development of the HNSS. The Strategic Direction “Improve thenutritional status of the Afghan Population” has been developed to take action in this area. Some issuesthat were not identified as priorities in the HNSS, have received increased attention in the MoPHStrategic Plan 2011‐2015. They include: Pharmaceutical Management, the Private Sector,Environmental Health and Hospitals/Tertiary Care.Prior to the development of the Strategic Directions, an inventory was done of all current MoPH policies,strategies and plans, as well as those under development. This inventory was shared with SF WorkingGroup members who were advised to build on them, and as much as possible, integrate them into thenew Strategic Plan. For each Strategic Direction, key stakeholders from within and outside governmentwere consulted with and invited to present their key recommendations to the Working Group using theframework provided (that included sample Strategic Directions and Priority Interventions).The MoPH Strategic Plan 2011‐2015, is designed to be implemented. During the process, participantswere guided to focus on priority areas and interventions that may be accomplished over the next fiveyears.CONCLUDING REMARKSHealth for all Afghans is an ambitious and inspiring vision. It is hoped that this document will provideinspiration, as well as support and practical guidance, to MoPH management and staff and many othersengaged in the health sector. Only by working collaboratively, can we address the complex issues facingAfghanistan and improve the health and nutritional status of the Afghan people. By focusing onpromoting health, using evidence to design and implement health programs and services, and in thespirit of continuous quality improvement, TOGETHER we can make a difference.Ministry of Public Health Strategic Plan, 2011‐201552