Sodiq Ojuroungbe
A renowned nutritionist, Mrs Odunayo Babatunde, has urged the Federal Government to increase domestic food production and establish community nutrition programmes to tackle the country’s persistent issues of malnutrition and food insecurity.
The food expert noted that it is imperative for the government to focus on developing sustainable domestic food production systems.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the expert stressed the need for strategic investments in agriculture and livestock sectors to enhance productivity and meet the nutritional requirements of the populace.
The World Health Organisation described malnutrition as deficiencies or excesses in nutrient intake, imbalance of essential nutrients, or impaired nutrient utilization.
The WHO further explained that the double burden of malnutrition consists of both undernutrition, overweight, obesity, as well as diet-related non-communicable diseases.
According to the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, Nigeria has about 19.8 million children who are malnourished, giving the country the highest burden of stunting in Africa and the second highest in the world.
The NDHS noted that about 70 per cent of children under five are anaemic, stressing that child nutrition is core to human capital development.
Speaking further, the food expert emphasised the critical role nutrition education and awareness campaigns play in promoting healthy eating habits among the population.
She stated that a community nutrition programme should be established to educate people on healthy eating habits and provide access to nutritious foods, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Babatunde further stressed the need for government agencies, private sector players, and civil society organisations to collaborate in tackling food insecurity and malnutrition.
The nutritionist underscored the significance of implementing community nutrition programmes tailored to address specific dietary needs and challenges prevalent in different regions.
“Government should increase domestic production, establish community nutrition programs, and subsidise costs for low-income families.
“Community nutrition programs play a vital role in promoting healthy eating habits, preventing malnutrition, and addressing micronutrient deficiencies.
“By engaging with local communities and empowering individuals to make informed food choices, we can improve overall health outcomes and mitigate the burden of nutrition-related diseases,” she added.
Copyright PUNCH
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: health_wise@punchng.com
The post Establish community nutrition programmes to tackle malnutrition, expert urges FG appeared first on Healthwise.