Tanzania’s Efforts to Combat Child Stunting and Malnutrition

Tanzania's Ongoing Battle Against Stunting and Malnutrition in Children

Dodoma, Tanzania – Tanzania remains one of the countries grappling with the persistent issue of stunting and cognitive impairments in children, a significant challenge that has come to the forefront in a recent report by the Tanzania Food and Nutrition Institute (TFNI). According to a 2022 survey conducted by the institute, one in every three children aged between 0-5 years faces the dual challenges of stunted growth and intellectual deficits.

Dr. Germana Leyna, the Executive Director of the Tanzania Food and Nutrition Institute, presented these alarming statistics during the opening of a conference aimed at assessing Tanzania’s progress in fulfilling its commitments made at the international Nutrition for Growth (N4G) summit.

Dr. Leyna emphasized the long-term consequences that arise from malnutrition, warning that children affected by stunting without immediate intervention may suffer permanent damage. This, she stated, presents a profound societal issue. In response, the government, in partnership with the private sector, has been organizing frequent meetings to combat malnutrition and ensure that efforts to eradicate stunting continue to move forward.

“Various measures have been implemented by the government to address stunting in children, and it is essential that the community adheres to guidelines for preparing nutritious meals,” Dr. Leyna explained.

Furthermore, Dr. Leyna pointed out the vital role that micronutrient deficiencies—such as a lack of vitamins and minerals—play in stunting. These deficiencies, she noted, also affect women of reproductive age, with 2022 data indicating that 37% of women are overweight, compared to just 17% of men.

As part of Tanzania's national strategy, Dr. Leyna highlighted the goal to eliminate malnutrition by 2030, underscoring the significant steps that are being taken. She also noted a notable increase in breastfeeding rates, which have risen from 50% to over 70%, a positive sign that the nation is making progress in the fight for better nutrition.

Elizabeth Ndaba, the Health and Nutrition Lead at World Vision Tanzania, discussed her organization’s role in tackling child malnutrition across various regions. She emphasized World Vision’s collaboration with the government, particularly in the execution of the N4G commitments and its ongoing "Inatosha" project, which aims to alleviate malnutrition in vulnerable areas.

"World Vision will continue to partner with the government through the Inatosha project to combat malnutrition across the country," Ndaba said.

Through these efforts, both the government and non-governmental organizations like World Vision are intensifying their work to ensure that Tanzania can meet its nutritional goals and safeguard the future of its children.