To celebrate International Women’s Day and highlight the importance of maternal nutrition, USAID Advancing Nutrition organized concerts by acclaimed artist Artist Gulzhigit Kalykov, a Kyrgyz pop singer who rose to fame after winning the Star of Eurasia music festival, in Jalal-Abad, Kochkor-Ata, and Razzakov⎯in the Jalal-Abad and Batken Regions of the Kyrgyz Republic. The events on March 10-12th also featured the national folklore group Shaiyr Apalar. The group’s performers include USAID Advancing Nutrition activists and volunteers who sing traditional songs and dress in traditional outfits. The project works with a number of national influencers and artists to host public events to raise awareness about optimal nutrition and hygiene practices among mainstream audiences in the Kyrgyz Republic.

In addition to the performances, event attendees participated in nutrition-themed activities, including a quiz on healthy nutrition for women and girls with questions related to preventing anemia and proper nutrition for pregnant and lactating mothers. Attendees also viewed a photo exhibition showcasing themes related to maternal health and women and children’s nutrition. The project also recognized project activists during the events with certificates of appreciation for their work in disseminating key health messages about nutrition, hygiene, and responsive care and early learning practices in their communities. Read more about our work in the Kyrgyz Republic.