Greenstar organizes a family gala to raise family planning awareness

Karachi – 30th January, 2017: Greenstar Social Marketing (GSM), an independent network member of Population Services International, organized a family gala called ‘Sabz Sitara Meena Bazaar’ in Karachi. The event was used to raise awareness about the benefits of family planning, while eradicating the prevalent myths and misconceptions associated with modern family planning methods.

“Such family oriented festivals are an ideal way to get important messages across to the general public,” said Dr. Syed Saeedul Hoda, CMO – GSM. “Through these initiatives we are looking to eradicate certain age-old misunderstandings regarding modern contraceptive products, and ensure young and future couples understand the need for family planning if they are to lead a healthy lifestyle.”

Attending families experienced a host of fun filled activities, which especially kept the kids entertained throughout the day. A jumping castle was set up, where kids spent most of their time, allowing their mothers to visit the nearby stalls. At the gaming area, teams comprising of mothers and children participated in minute to win it games for a host of different prizes.

For females, a cooking competition was organized, where selected audience members went head to head under the guidance of Pakistan’s renowned figure, Zubaida appa. A photo booth was set also up, where fans of Zubaida appa got an opportunity to take memorable pictures.

On the stage, GSM’s medical experts were present to give families on the spot counseling regarding family planning, and to clear any misconceptions regarding modern family planning methods. Later on, Hum Tum, a theatre play developed around the issue of family planning was enjoyed by all those present.

With such initiatives to eradicating myths and misconceptions associated with modern family planning methods, GSM will continue to play a significant role in improving the nation’s abysmal contraceptive prevalence rate – the percentage of couples who practice family planning.

About Greenstar Social Marketing
Greenstar Social Marketing (GSM) was established in 1991 as a social enterprise, to improve the sexual and reproductive health of people in the country by increasing choices and access to quality modern family planning methods and contraceptives. With a distribution network of over 7,000 franchised clinics & 70,000 retail outlets, GSM is responsible for provision of approximately 53% of all contraceptives, distributed by the private sector, in Pakistan.