This case study documents the experience of engaging with the private sector in health to maintain the delivery and use of essential health services (EHS) with a specific focus on maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) and family planning (FP) services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan. A case study methodology was employed, drawing on desk review and key informant interviews, which were conducted between February and April 2022. Several opportunities were raised through the case study, to seize momentum, to ‘build back’ and nurture trust in the health system eroded by COVID-19 pandemic, harnessing all health sectors. While these were specific to Pakistan, they can be relevant to a wider audience.

This case study documents the experience, benefits, challenges, and lessons learnt of engaging the private sector in health to maintain the delivery and use of essential maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH), including family planning (FP) services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda. A case study methodology was employed, drawing on desk review and key informant interviews, which were conducted between November and December 2021. Several opportunities were raised by respondents, to seize momentum, to ‘build back’ and nurture trust in the health system eroded by COVID-19 pandemic, harnessing all health sectors. While these were specific to Uganda, they are applicable to a wider audience and contexts.