The leaders in Moroto and Napak Districts are raising concerns about the alarming levels of malnutrition in the region and are calling for action to address this issue.
According to a recent report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a significant number of children and pregnant/lactating women are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition in the Karamoja region between February 2023 and January 2024.
The leaders emphasize that while the goal of ending malnutrition is achievable, it requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including government bodies and development partners, to advocate for increased resources and implement effective strategies.
Several organizations are already working on initiatives to improve food security and reduce malnutrition in the region. For instance, the Cascade organization is implementing projects to promote nutritious foods and engage with the private sector to enhance food security. They are also focusing on women’s empowerment to support household livelihoods.
Action Against Hunger, an organization in Moroto district, is implementing a five-year project with a significant portion of the budget allocated to nutrition.
They plan to provide water for production and encourage households to grow their own food through an irrigation system and block farming.
However, some leaders express concerns about the level of support they receive. They note that much of the support for nutrition interventions comes from development partners, and the local government’s contribution is limited.
Strict guidelines for grants from the central government sometimes hinder efforts to respond effectively to malnutrition.
The leaders stress the need for urgent action to address malnutrition before the situation worsens. They call for practical and sustainable interventions, including water provision for irrigation and community involvement in nutritional projects.
Overall, the leaders are advocating for increased collaboration, transparent budget allocation, and tangible results in nutrition-related projects to combat malnutrition effectively in the region.