NGO Tackles Malnutrition, Transforms Agricultural Practices in Malawi
The project, implemented by Self Help Africa and funded through GIZ, demonstrated a collaborative approach to addressing malnutrition and agricultural challenges in rural Malawi.
DEDZA, MALAWI— Self Help Africa (SHA) has significantly reduced childhood stunting and improved agricultural practices in Dedza district through a decade-long, multi-faceted development project funded by the German government, writes Edward Chikwanda.
The organization's ten-year initiative targeted four traditional authorities, addressing critical challenges of malnutrition, food insecurity, and agricultural sustainability.
Project manager Blessings Kambombo reported a dramatic reduction in child stunting rates from 52% to a lower percentage through strategic interventions.
"Although the project is phasing out, we believe the skills we've imparted will continue to improve people's lives," Kambombo told Africa Brief.
The comprehensive program focused on four key areas:
- Nutrition and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
- Resilience building
- Governance and social accountability
- Community partnerships
Martina Kress, German team leader for the Food and Nutrition Security Program, highlighted the community's enthusiastic response.
"Everyone realized how important nutrition is because nutrition is the basis of individual and national development," Kress said.
Local farmer Elida Lyford exemplified the project's practical impact. "Previously, I spent a lot of money on food. Now, I harvest vegetables from my garden and eat nutritious food," Lyford stated.
Dedza Town Council's Director of Planning and Development, McPherson Mwakhwawa, is committed to continuing the program's initiatives, recognising their transformative potential.
The project, implemented by Self Help Africa and funded through GIZ, demonstrated a collaborative approach to addressing malnutrition and agricultural challenges in rural Malawi.