The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has emphasised that locally driven initiatives remain the most effective solution to addressing the alarming rise in child malnutrition cases across Bauchi State.
Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Bauchi, Dr. Nuhzat Rafique, said this yesterday while interacting with journalists in her office.
She stressed that combating malnutrition requires community-level interventions where mothers and caregivers are taught practical ways to prepare balanced meals using available local food items.
“Malnutrition can be tackled from the grassroots if caregivers are empowered with the right knowledge.
“Local solutions present the best approach to address the problem directly from communities, thereby securing the future of our children,” Dr. Rafique said.
She further warned that without prioritising community-led strategies, efforts to reverse the trend of malnutrition may fall short.
According to her, nutrition is not only about food availability but also about appropriate feeding practices and awareness among families.
Dr. Rafique assured that UNICEF is committed to scaling up its nutrition support to Bauchi State.
She, however, urged the government to review and strengthen its counterpart funding arrangements in order to sustain gains and expand coverage of nutrition programmes.
“With increased stronger collaboration between UNICEF, the government and local communities, we can build a healthier generation of children in Bauchi,” she added.
