As part of efforts to combat malnutrition, the UNICEF and Kwara State Government have deployed 3,964 cartons of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) in combating child malnutrition in the State.
This initiative, funded through the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), indicates the commitment of both partners to improving child health and addressing severe acute malnutrition among children in the State.
With support from donors, UNICEF initiated a financing mechanism to accelerate nutrition interventions in Nigeria. The Child Nutrition Fund operates on a matching funds model, aligning the state’s nutrition investment on a 1:1 ratio. Accordingly, the Kwara State Government contributed USD 100,000, which was matched by UNICEF, leading to the procurement of the RUTF that was handed over.
At least 1,982 cartons are being supplied in this first batch, while additional 1,982 will be supplied in the second batch, according to a statement by UNICEF.
The RUTF will be distributed to health facilities across Kwara State, targeting children under five who are suffering from severe wasting (too thin for their height).
“Our contribution to the Child Nutrition Fund is a reaffirmation of our continued dedication to eradicating malnutrition among our children in Kwara State. Our partnership with UNICEF is not just a collaboration but a strong mission to uphold the fundamental rights of women and children. And we will continue to make major advances towards improving child health and nutrition,” Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said at the handing over ceremony in Ilorin.
“Malnutrition remains a critical issue nationwide, including in Kwara State. This handover marks a vital step in addressing these challenges by ensuring life-saving nutrition commodities is available at the community level.
“The Kwara State Government’s commitment to addressing child malnutrition is commendable. The Child Nutrition Fund enables us to double our efforts and reach more children with the essential nutrition they need. We hope this partnership serves as an inspiration for other states to prioritise child nutrition,” said Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative.
“As we approach the MNCH Week in May/June, let us seize this critical opportunity to provide Vitamin A Supplements, deworming tablets to children, multiple micronutrient supplements to pregnant women as well as other integrated services for women and children. I call on the government of Kwara State to also assign additional human resources to enhance the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) services across all LGAs.”
UNICEF has, therefore, called for continued investment to sustain the gains made and expand nutrition interventions. Kwara State’s malnutrition burden necessitates additional funding to address the nutritional needs of vulnerable children.