District 25 project visits

Zonta District 25 Governor Dr. Zareen Delawar Hussain, recently visited service projects in Mumbai, India, and Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Dr. Zareen’s visit to Mumbai included meetings and project visits hosted by Zonta leaders and members. Zonta International and Zonta International Foundation Board Director Erick Elavia hosted the governor for dinner at the Cricket Club, followed by a luncheon with members of the Zonta Club of Bombay I and the Zonta Club of Bombay III.

A visit to the Zonta Club of Bombay III project showcased young girls from local slum communities who have received beautician training. The program aims to equip participants with practical skills and increased confidence, opening pathways to employment and financial independence.

Time constraints limited the visit to the Zonta Club of Bombay I project, where children were observed studying together on the floor alongside their teacher. The project highlights the need for basic classroom resources such as chairs and tables while demonstrating the strong enthusiasm and commitment of students eager to learn.

Dr. Zareen then visited the Maternal and Child Health Training Institute and Maternal and Child Health Services (MAMMS) in Dhaka, a signature project supported by the Zonta Club II of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Obstetric fistula remains a serious yet preventable maternal health condition in Bangladesh, often affecting women from marginalized and rural communities due to early marriage, early pregnancy, prolonged obstructed labor and limited access to emergency obstetric care.

Located in Moghbazar, Dhaka, MAMMS is internationally recognized as a center of excellence in maternal health and fistula treatment. The institute was founded by Profesor Dr. Sayeba Akhter, a pioneer in fistula surgery and women’s reproductive health.

MAMMS provides comprehensive services including surgical repair of obstetric fistula, post-operative follow-up, psychosocial counseling and support for social reintegration. The institute also serves as a national and regional training hub, building capacity among doctors, nurses and midwives while advocating for safe motherhood, skilled birth attendance and the prevention of child marriage.

The work of MAMMS aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the United Nations Population Fund’s Campaign to End Fistula. However, challenges remain, including limited public awareness, a shortage of trained surgeons and insufficient government infrastructure for pelvic reconstructive services.

The Zonta Club II of Dhaka has supported the project since 2012 by funding treatment for several patients each year. Continued collaboration and advocacy are needed to expand access to care and reduce the prevalence of obstetric fistula in Bangladesh.