Promoting Nutrition Resilience in Pastoral and Agro-pastoral areas through Nutrition-sensitive Interventions: Exploring Contextually Viable Approaches: The Case of the Somali Region, Ethiopia

Hassen Mahamed Jerar, Saleha Abdusamed and Shamsedin Mahdi Hassan

 

Abstract

Background: Child and maternal malnutrition persist as significant public health issues in pastoralist areas of Ethiopia.
Objectives: This study aims to explore interventions for promoting nutrition resilience and identify facilitators and barriers among pastoralist and agro-pastoralist communities in the Somali region.
Methods: A mixed cross-sectional study design, incorporating qualitative and quantitative methods, engaged nutrition bureau staff and community members. Qualitative data collection included focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews, and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data involved a sample of 293 individuals, analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: Participants demonstrated good knowledge of nutrition interventions, favoring multi-sectoral approaches for promoting nutrition resilience. However, existing development programs were perceived as not nutrition sensitive. Nutrition literacy and community influencers were highlighted as pivotal, while infrastructure, program implementation, and skilled professionals were facilitators. Recurrent drought, climate change, limited access to information, and nutritional challenges posed barriers.
Conclusion: Nutrition resilience in pastoral and agro-pastoral settings can be enhanced through multi-sectoral approaches, with community involvement central to program success. Key stakeholders should prioritize community-centered interventions in their strategies.

Published on: May 31, 2024
doi: 10.17756/jfcn.2024-177
Citation: Jerar HM, Abdusamed S, Hassan SM. 2024. Promoting Nutrition Resilience in Pastoral and Agro-pastoral areas through Nutrition-sensitive Interventions: Exploring Contextually Viable Approaches: The Case of the Somali Region, Ethiopia. J Food Chem Nanotechnol 10(2): 79-84.

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