In a bid to curb malnutrition and hunger among children and women, the Gombe State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have launched a four-year Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan of Action (GMSPAFN) on Food and Nutrition.
The plan, spanning 2023 to 2027, has a projected cost of N11 billion.
UNICEF stated that over 50% of children and women in Gombe suffer from anemia, contributing significantly to the high rates of malnutrition, stunting, and wasting.
While speaking at the GMSPAFN launch in Gombe, the Chief of the Bauchi Field Office, Tushar Rane, urged the state to commit to eradicating malnutrition within its borders.
According to Rane, the food and nutrition policy would guide the state in addressing food and nutrition security challenges at all levels, from individuals and households to communities, local governments, and the state itself.
He explained, “The Costed Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan will promote diets, services, and practices that support optimal nutritional growth and development for all children, adolescents, and women. The plan estimates that interventions across the state will require a public investment of N11,169,423,741.16, with an average yearly public investment of N2,792,355,935 over the next four years (2023-2027).”
Rane, who was represented by the Field’s Nutrition Specialist, Philomena Irene, also highlighted Gombe’s contribution of N50 million as a counterpart contribution to the Child Nutrition Fund to address all forms of malnutrition.
