Malnutrition remains a critical issue in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to approximately 45% of all child deaths in the region. This crisis not only threatens the survival of millions but also hampers socio-economic development across the continent
At EquiHealth Global, we are committed to addressing this challenge. We do this through NutriCare, a comprehensive nutrition intervention program. It is designed to offer sustainable solutions for communities in need. For the price of a few Starbucks drinks each week, you can deliver life-saving nutrition. This will help a child suffering from malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa. Your support provides screening and assessment for over 350 students. It also offers education for families. Additionally, it supports our long-term food security solutions.
The NutriCare Approach: A Comprehensive Solution
NutriCare is a holistic initiative that tackles malnutrition from multiple angles. Our program is now piloted in Kambirwa, Kenya at the Dylan Jones Academy. It is also piloted in Kampala, Uganda alongside Doksa Foundation. The program integrates nutrition screening, education, community-driven sustainable farming for food security to create a lasting impact. Malnutrition is a significant contributor to the NCD burden. In Murang’a county where one of our programs is located, 1 out of 10 under 5 children suffers from stunting. In Kampala, Uganda, 3 out of 10 children suffer from stunting (WHO 2023). These numbers are projected to grow over the next decade.
EquiHealth Strategy
- Nutrition Screening & Assessment
• At the moment, we offer 350+ children screenings and nutritional assessments 3 times a year for malnutrition and underlying health issues. These screenings occur during the school term. During these assessments, children are classified as wasted, underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. These classifications are based on standard anthropometric measures, including height, weight, BMI, and mid-upper arm circumference.
• Provision of food kits & essential medical support for at-risk children. During the screening activities, we distribute food bags that include vital food items such as proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. These bags are designed to sustain a family of five for approximately one month. The children are also treated for common infectious diseases that contribute to malnutrition like neglected tropical diseases through worms by our primary care team. A nutritionist assesses every child and offers an individualized nutritional plan. Parents and caregivers are engaged to develop a management plan and encouraged to include essential micronutrients in the diet.
• Monitoring the school feeding programs that aim to provide daily nutritious meals is essential. Throughout the school term, we work closely with school administrations to oversee and guarantee that students receive quality and sufficient food. Furthermore, we prioritize proper handling and optimal food safety by licensing food handlers through relevant authorities.
2. Community Nutrition Education
We conduct educational Workshops to raise awareness in the community about balanced diets, proper portion sizes for various nutrients, maximizing food sources, and encouraging small-scale farmers to grow off-season produce. We also address the balance between financial needs and family nutrition, along with sanitation and hygiene. During these workshops, we collaborate with local authorities and community stakeholders to highlight available resources. Our sessions promote sustainable farming practices that are data-driven and scientifically supported, engaging stakeholders in the agri-business sector who share strategies with participants on maximizing produce and establishing market linkages.
3. Sustainable Farming & Food Security
To tackle food insecurity, a persistent challenge contributing to malnutrition, we must focus on sustainable farming practices that maximize production and connect directly with end users. This approach not only guarantees that families have access to the necessary food but also acts as a social protection mechanism, fostering economic growth within the community. Given the rising food prices and the impact of climate change, these measures are not merely beneficial but essential. Our current pilot projects under consideration include:
- Investment in cold-chain infrastructure to improve food storage and reduce waste.
- Support for local smallholder farmers to increase food production and ensure lasting food security.
- Evaluation of the challenges encountered by farmers in communities as a result of climate change.
The Cost of Change: How You Can Help
The average cost to run NutriCare per person is $40. This amount facilitates screening and assessment for over 350 children, provides education for families, and supports food security projects. This investment can save lives, improve health outcomes, and build sustainable food systems for families in need.
We are seeking 200 sponsors to fund NutriCare for an entire year. Each sponsor’s contribution sustains life-changing interventions for vulnerable children and families.
Join the Fight Against Malnutrition
NutriCare is more than a program—it’s a movement to make sure that no child goes to bed hungry. Your support can help us scale this initiative, expand our reach, and transform lives.
Get Involved Today:
• Donate to help us give food, education, and sustainable farming resources.
• Partner with us to bring NutriCare to more communities.
• Share our mission to spread awareness about the malnutrition crisis.
Visit www.equihealthglobal.org to learn more and become a sponsor today!