Communities hail nutrition project
People in Likoma have hailed the Invest in Early Years for Growth and Productivity Nutrition Project being implemented in the island district, saying it is encouraging mothers to give their children six food groups.
In an interview, a nutrition promoter on Chuzumulu Island, Jennipher Mtambo said previously parents did not know about food diversification, especially the six food groups.
“We used to give children nsima and fish only, but now we give them other kinds of foodstuffs,” she said.
On his part, Sub-Traditional Authority Kabuthu of Chizumulu said the project has changed people’s mindset about food.
“We encourage mothers to give their children the six food groups to fight malnutrition,” he said.
Likoma acting district commissioner Benford Mwakayuni, who is also district education manager, urged people to own the project, saying it will reduce stunting among children.
Invest in Early Years for Growth and Productivity is a five-year project government is implementing in 13 districts through the Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare and is supported by the World Bank.
