“We are better together: Addressing nutrition is a complex challenge that requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach across various sectors. The multifaceted nature of nutrition issues demands the involvement of multiple stakeholders from sectors such as health, agriculture, education, social welfare, and beyond. This means that tackling malnutrition cannot be the responsibility of one sector alone.”

Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs, African Union Commission

The African Union Commission (AUC) is advancing its commitment to nutrition through a series of Regional Stakeholder Consultations, designed to develop the Multisectoral Nutrition Policy Framework and a Funding Target for Nutrition Investment in Africa. These consultations are part of a wider effort to address malnutrition on the continent and ensure sustainable funding for nutrition programs, with stakeholders from various sectors working together to identify high-impact interventions.

The latest consultation in the series took place in Eastern Africa, hosted by Tanzania, where representatives from across the region convened in Dar es Salaam from September 30 to October 1, 2024. With a focus on strengthening multisectoral approaches to nutrition, the discussions aimed to develop actionable strategies and align them with the broader objectives of the Africa Regional Nutrition Strategy (ARNS) and the AU’s Agenda 2063.

“A Turning Point in Nutrition Policy”

The consultation marked a significant step forward in addressing Africa’s malnutrition challenges. Prof. Julio Rakotonirina, Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs at the AUC, emphasized the urgency of the mission: “Nearly 86 million children under five across Africa are suffering from malnutrition, with 63 million stunted, 3 million wasted, and 10 million overweight. These figures are alarming, but they remind us of the vital role we must play in securing a healthier future for our children.” He also noted the increasing economic pressures on African countries, which are compounded by extreme weather conditions and rising food costs​.

The consultations centered on integrating high-impact nutrition interventions into existing policies, identifying financial requirements, and developing comprehensive funding strategies. “We need to ensure that nutrition is embedded across multiple sectors—from health and education to agriculture and social protection,” Prof. Rakotonirina added, underscoring the AUC’s commitment to a multisectoral approach​.

Collaborative Efforts Across the Region

Participants of the consultations included representatives from African Union member states, the AUC, the African Development Bank (AfDB), African Leaders for Nutrition (ALN), and other key stakeholders. These sessions provided a platform for various sectors—health, agriculture, education, and finance—to share best practices and develop coordinated strategies for tackling malnutrition.

George Ouma, Coordinator for African Leaders for Nutrition at the AfDB, praised the collaborative efforts: “This gathering has been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision. By strengthening partnerships and aligning our goals, we can create sustainable nutrition solutions for the future”

One of the major outcomes of the consultations was the identification of school feeding programs as a critical intervention. However, challenges such as inadequate funding and implementation limitations were highlighted. Participants called for more comprehensive policies, ensuring that school environments promote nutrition through healthy food offerings​.

Next Steps and Future Consultations

Looking ahead, the focus will shift to North and Central Africa, where the next Regional Stakeholder Consultation will be held in November 2024. This upcoming consultation is expected to build on the insights gained from the previous meetings and refine the strategies for ensuring nutrition investment in these regions​.

Mr. Ouma reiterated the importance of maintaining the momentum gained from these consultations: “As we prepare for the Nutrition for Growth Summit in 2025, it is crucial that we continue to advocate for increased funding and stronger policies that can sustain our nutrition programs. The commitments made today will shape the future of nutrition across Africa”​.

The AUC’s efforts, supported by regional stakeholders and international partners, are paving the way for a more robust and well-funded nutrition framework across Africa. The consultations are not just a platform for discussion but are critical in transforming the continent’s approach to tackling malnutrition, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for all.