Holistic and multidiciplinary approach to nutrition
Nutrition in national development
Dr Eden Tareke, July 2023, Asmara Eritrea
Holistic and multi sectoral approach to nutrition
At present there is a National Food and Nutrition Steering Committee composed of
the MoA, MoH, MMMR, MoTI, and ESI backed by a National Food and Nutrition Technical Committee.
However a holistic approach in the food systems (all the elements and activities from food
production to consumption) involves more stakeholders that than those included in the National Food and Nutrition Steering Committee.
Multi sectoral nature of Nutrition
Availability, accessibility and safety of food at all times. Accessibility and availability can be achieved through food production (MoLWE, MoA, MoMR) and distribution (MoT, MoLSW, MTI, MoJ) Safety can be achieved by following national and international food regulations and legislation (ESI, MTI, MoJ)
Nutritional value of the food and the consequences on health are responsibility of (MoH).
Multi-sectoral approach to Nutrition
Intergenerational effect of nutrition
Nutrition has intergenerational effect (a malnourished mother gives birth to a malnourished child and so on) thus nutrition plays intergenerational effect in national development.
Nutrition as an input and output
A well-nourished child is more likely to escape poverty as an adult and thus more likely to contribute to the endeavors of development programs (such as successful economic and social development). And a successful development program contributes to food security, completing a loop of positive development.
To end malnutrition in all its forms and secure food and nutrition
Need For National Nutrition Strategy
Holistic and integrated approach
Eritrea has had incredible achievements in the area of food security, which is a part of nutrition security however Eritrea at the moment lacks National Nutrition strategy..
Thus for impactful nutrition intervention, Eritrea needs a targeted national strategy, and holistic and integrated approach for nutrition, which is critical for Eritrea’s future.