Saiqa Siraj

Despite steep challenges, including frequent natural disasters, poverty rates, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Bangladesh has defied the odds to make progress in its development goals. It bucked the global recession during the pandemic year, with 5.1% GDP growth in 2020 – the highest growth rate in South Asia. The country has also made significant headway in reducing infant mortality rates and increasing life expectancy.

Vitamin A deficiency is a public health concern all around the world, affecting children under five in more than half of all countries. In South Asia, which has one-fifth of the world’s population, 44-50% of pre-school children are affected by severe vitamin A deficiency (VAD).

COVID-19 has profoundly impacted all countries, with even the most prosperous nations overwhelmed by the pandemic. For low- and middle-income countries, the consequences are even more severe.