Investing in Early Years: A Holistic Approach to Childhood Nutrition

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

The Food and Nutrition Council (FNC) recently conducted trainings to enhance the capacity of District Food and Nutrition Security Committee (DFNSC) members. The trainings, which were conducted in nine districts (Mutare, Kariba, Bubi, Bulilima, Chivi, Mwenezi, Mbire, Mt Darwin and Harare) specifically focused on Early Childhood Development (ECD), equipping members to oversee the delivery of strategies for promoting optimal nutrition and development in early childhood through Care Groups. It also provided participants with the knowledge and skills needed to understand a multi-systems approach to addressing all forms of malnutrition and to effectively monitor and support interventions in their districts.

Why Early Childhood Development Matters

Early Childhood Development isn’t just a phase; it’s the foundation of a child’s life. Spanning from conception to age eight, Early Childhood Development covers a child’s physical, cognitive , social and emotional growth. Neuroscientific studies show that 80% of a child’s brain is formed by age three, making early experiences, proper nutrition and a safe nurturing environment important for healthy development.

The trainings emphasised that nutrition is a cornerstone of Early Childhood Development. The consequences of poor nutrition during these formative years can lead to impaired brain development and lifelong health and cognitive challenges. One of the most visible signs is stunting, a form of chronic malnutrition that prevents a child from growing to their expected height.

The Guiding Framework for Nurturing Care

To guide their efforts, District Food and Nutrition Security Committee members were introduced to the Nurturing Care Framework, a holistic model designed to support a child’s development. This framework is built on five interconnected pillars:

  1. Good Health: Ensuring access to essential healthcare, vaccinations and regular check-ups.
  2. Adequate Nutrition: Promoting balanced diets and proper infant and young child feeding practices.
  3. Responsive Caregiving: Fostering positive interactions and secure attachments to support a child’s emotional and social development.
  4. Security and Safety: Creating a protected and stress-free environment.
  5. Opportunities for Early Learning: Providing opportunities for cognitive stimulation through play-based activities.

By focusing on these pillars and leveraging existing structures like Care Groups, FNC has capacitated District Food and Nutrition Security Committee members with the tools and knowledge to effectively implement and monitor Early Childhood Development initiatives in their districts. The way forward is for the District Food and Nutrition Security Committees to apply their new knowledge to achieve sustainable development through community ownership of these initiatives. A well-executed Early Childhood Development programme which prioritises optimal nutrition from the earliest stages of life, will not only improve children’s health and development but will also lead to enhanced productivity and a more prosperous future for the nation.

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: Cultivating a Brighter Future – How One Women’s Group in Chipinge is Transforming Food and Nutrition Security and Livelihoods

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

Manicaland – Gender-based violence (GBV) casts a long shadow, not only inflicting physical and psychological trauma but also severely undermining household food and nutrition security. It disrupts access to food and limits women’s ability to earn income. The tragic reality is that food insecurity can in turn exacerbate GBV creating a devastating cycle.

But in Ward 19 of Chipinge District, Manicaland Province a remarkable group of women is breaking this cycle and sowing the seeds of change.

A Safe Haven Blooms into a Hub of Empowerment

The United Hands Women’s Group started off as a crucial support group, a safe haven for women who had endured abuse and gender-based violence at the hands of their spouses and in-laws. Recognising their commitment to ending GBV and improving household food security, various stakeholders including the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MWACSMED), Agricultural Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX), the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC), the Rural District Council, local leadership and partners came together. These different stakeholders are part of the Chipinge District Food and Nutrition Security Committee (DFNSC).

Through this collaboration the women received invaluable training in a range of income-generating activities, including vegetable production, solar drying, packaging and basket weaving.

Cultivating Success: From Land to Enhanced Livelihoods

The group sought and secured a piece of land from the local Rural District Council, a hectare on which they are now  producing vegetables, fruits and tubers. Despite their piece of land being unfenced, their entrepreneurial spirit shines through. They also put up a traditional hut from which they cook traditional dishes and sell by the roadside.

Their hard work and dedication are yielding incredible results significantly impacting livelihoods as well as food and nutrition security:

  • Improved Household Income and Reduced GBV: The proceeds generated from these activities are used in supporting their families and the group members are now experiencing peace in their families as they are contributing to household income. This has led to GBV cases declining in the community, breaking the vicious cycle that can result from GBV’s impact on food security.
  • Enhanced Food and Nutrition Security: Food and nutrition security has been enhanced. The group actively discourages low calorie/empty calorie unhealthy foods for children, promoting nutritious options like instant sweet potato porridges.
  • Value Addition and Market Access: They are excelling in value addition of carrots, cassava, madhumbe, finger millet and sorghum creating diverse products such as:
    • Packaged dried carrots and beetroot
    • Processed cassava mealie-meal
    • Pineapple and mauyu drinks
    • Colourful basketry and earrings on display
    • Dried shredded beetroot
    • Cooked and dried sweet potatoes instant meal porridge
  • Regional Recognition and Income Generation: The group has often times been invited to regional platforms to showcase their work and realise income from such activities. They also display their wares by their hut.

Lessons Learned and a Vision for the Future

This success story highlights several key lessons:

  • Multisectoral Collaboration Works: A multisectoral approach is yielding results, with MWACSMED identifying victims of GBV and training conducted by MOHCC and Agritex. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the DFNSC’s collaborative efforts.
  • Community Ownership is Critical: Community programme ownership is critical in the sustainability of the programmes in the long haul.
  • Empowering Skills Lead to Income: Undertaking training on vegetable drying, packaging and value addition can equip individuals with knowledge and skills to reduce post-harvest losses, extend product shelf life and create marketable value-added products, ultimately boosting income and contributing to food security. The beneficiaries generate income from their produce.

The training received by the women has been transformative, equipping them with new knowledge and skills in solar drying of vegetables, vacuum packaging of produce and value addition. Participants learned about various drying methods like solar drying and oven drying, optimising drying conditions to minimise nutrient loss and hygiene and safety practices to prevent contamination. In packaging, they gained knowledge on choosing appropriate packaging materials and techniques for different market needs. For value addition, they learned to develop products like vegetable powders and spice mixes, formulate recipes, understand market demand and even basic costing, pricing, marketing and sales strategies. Food safety and quality control along with business planning were also integral parts of their training.

Looking ahead, continued collaboration between sectors/strengthened multisectoral approach to issues in communities is highly recommended, along with community ownership of programmes contributing significantly to their sustainability and market research for export. The next steps involve support for expansion, monitoring, record keeping and documentation of activities.

The United Hands Women’s Group in Chipinge is not just an inspiring success story; it is a powerful example of how empowering women through improved livelihoods and food and nutrition security can transform lives and build a more peaceful and prosperous community.

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: How Kubhudilila Garden is Enhancing Food and Nutrition Security and Livelihoods in Hwange

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

Matabeleland North – Nekatambe Ward 13, located in Hwange District is an area characterised by low, erratic and unevenly distributed rainfall, typical of agroecological region 5. For farmers, this translates into poor productivity. However, a remarkable initiative the Kubhudilila Horticultural Garden project is changing this narrative and transforming the landscape and the lives of its community members.

A Multisectoral Approach to Mitigation and Empowerment

The Kubhudilila Garden project spanning 3 hectares was started in 2021 as a measure to mitigate the shock created by hunger. It was implemented under the innovative Food for Asset (FFA) programme a sustainable model of self-reliance, directly linking labour to livelihoods and food security. This success was a result of the Hwange District Food and Nutrition Security Committee  multi-sectoral collaboration where key partners including the World Food Programme, World Vision, AGRITEX, traditional leaders, the Ward Councillor and the Nekatambe Ward 13 community all played crucial roles in spearheading the programme’s success.

The strategy was simple yet profoundly effective: community members facing food insecurity registered to work at the garden, irrespective of gender. They committed four hours a day, fifteen days a month. In return for their labour participants received a monthly food package comprising of 50kg of grain maize, 5 litres of cooking oil and 10kg of legumes (cowpeas, peas or sugar beans). This continued until the programme’s completion, providing immediate relief while simultaneously building long term community assets and skills.

From Dependency to Dignity: Tangible Impact on Livelihoods Nutrition and Food Security

The Kubhudilila Garden project has brought a profound difference to Nekatambe. Before its establishment many participants experienced periods lack of adequate food for their families during droughts. Today they are consistently occupied with productive work at the garden, able to fend for themselves, fostering a sense of dignity and self-sufficiency.

The transformation is evident in numerous testimonials and tangible outcomes:

  • Economic Empowerment: The garden has become a direct source of income and financial stability. Many participants have successfully paid school fees and bought uniforms for their children or grandchildren, directly improving access to education. Some have even invested in livestock, purchasing chickens and goats, diversifying their assets and creating additional income streams. This shift from reliance to economic activity has improved their livelihoods.
  • Income Generation and Food and Nutrition Security: Participants are now able to sell their horticultural products to generate income for their families. Additionally, they also get fresh, nutritious food directly from the garden for their own households, significantly enhancing their food security and dietary diversity.
  • Community Solidarity and Nutrition Support: The project has fostered a strong spirit of unity and collective responsibility. Participants pull together contributions as a social response to members facing hardships like bereavement or illness, demonstrating a robust community safety net. Furthermore, the garden actively supports the local school feeding scheme with fresh vegetables, directly contributing to the nutrition and wellbeing of the children in the community.

This story powerfully demonstrates the positive impact of a programme that successfully shifted the community from a situation of dependency to one of self-sufficiency, resilience and improved quality of life.

Looking Ahead

The Kubhudilila Garden is actively planning to expand its farming activities with the addition of aquaculture and poultry in its pipeline. These ventures are considered highly compatible with horticulture production, promising further diversification of income and food sources and reinforcing the long-term sustainability of the livelihoods created.

The Kubhudilila Garden project stands as a testament to how strategic, community-driven interventions can transform lives, enhance food and nutrition security and build lasting resilience against the challenges of climate change. It is a powerful reminder that with the right support and a strong community spirit, people can move beyond dependency to cultivate a brighter and more secure future for themselves.

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: The Success of the Tamuka Group in Marondera District – Empowering Women and Strengthening Food and Nutrition Security.

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

Marondera West – In the vibrant community of Keal Farm, Ward 4, Marondera West, the Tamuka Group is making significant strides in agriculture and food and nutrition security. Comprising of six dedicated female farmers, this Agricultural Business Group is transforming their community by promoting self-sufficiency and sustainable farming practices. Initiated by Mrs. S. Dube from Mutoramhandwe A2 farm , with support from her husband the Tamuka Group exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing local challenges.

Background

The formation of the agricultural business group arose from Mrs. Dube’s keen observation of the struggles faced by A1 farmers in her area, many of whom relied on casual labor despite having land. Recognising the potential for improvement, Mrs. Dube reached out to the District Food and Nutrition Security Committee (DFNSC) through the Department of Agricultural, Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX) seeking assistance for the newly established group.

Since its inception, the group has actively participated in various agricultural shows at the ward, district and provincial levels, earning accolades for their impressive displays. Their hard work and dedication have resulted in tangible outcomes such as the establishment of a tuck shop and the acquisition of a grinding mill designed to process a variety of grains including small grains.

Products Produced by the Tamuka Group

The agricultural business group produces a range of products including:

  1. Baobab Juice
  2. Dried Beans
  3. Cooked and Solar-Dried Green Mealies (Mumhare)
  4. Processed Small Grains

A field visit to their site by the Food and Nutrition Council (FNC) and the District Food and Nutrition Security Committee reflected their commitment, with land preparation at an advanced stage and a well-constructed tuck shop that is nearly complete.

FNC Director General Dr George D. Kembo giving remarks during the field visit.

Key Stakeholders Involved

The success of the Tamuka Group is supported by several key stakeholders:

  • Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development: Providing essential technical support to enhance the group’s agricultural practices.
  • District Food and Nutrition Security Committee: Offering supervision and guidance to ensure the group meets its objectives.

Testimonials 

The community-driven approach of the Tamuka Group has proven effective, as highlighted by testimonials from its members. One group member confirmed that the beneficiaries can now send their children to better schools without encountering fees arrears. This reflects the teamwork and collaboration that have become hallmarks of the agricultural business group.

Members of the Tamuka group (wearing reed hats) and members of the DFNSC following proceedings during the visit.

Outcomes and Impact on Food and Nutrition Security

The Tamuka Group has made significant strides in enhancing food and nutrition security in their community:

  1. Empowerment: The project has empowered individuals and the community to control their food supply, promoting self-sufficiency.
  2. Increased Food Availability: The initiative has improved the availability of food in Ward 11, Marondera West which has limited access to markets or grocery stores.
  3. Community Access to Food: The tuck shop will increase access to food for the local community, facilitating better nutrition.

 

The Tamuka Group tuckshop which constructed using the group’s profits.

Conclusion

The Tamuka Group’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of community collaboration and the critical role of women in agriculture. By fostering self-sufficiency and enhancing food and nutrition security, this group is not only improving their own lives but also uplifting their entire community.

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: The Kuwirirana Care Group’s Fight Against Child Malnutrition

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

Mashonaland East – The Kuwirirana Care Group, Mutoko District has become a vital initiative in the battle against child malnutrition, significantly contributing to food and nutrition security for the community. This grassroots effort mobilises local resources and empowers families to ensure that their children receive the essential nutrients needed for healthy development. By addressing the nutritional needs of young children, the group is fostering a healthier future for the entire village.

Kuwirirana Caregroup Members Preparing Maoresa Porridge in Ward 1- Janha Village, Mutoko District

Background

The Kuwirirana Care Group was established as part of a broader initiative to combat malnutrition in the district. This community-led model brings together families, health workers and local leaders to create a supportive network focused on improving nutritional outcomes. So far the initiative has trained 12 Lead Mothers and 3 Community Based Health Workers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective feeding programmes and mobilise resources. Since its inception, the programme has expanded to engage 38 villages in the area, fostering a collaborative approach to nutrition and health. The programme is fully supervised by the Ward Food and Nutrition Security Committee (WFNSC) who pay visits to the clusters, monitoring the cooking and feeding. The local Environmental Health Technician and Nutrition Assistant on the other hand give technical support.

Key Initiatives

The Kuwirirana Care Group focuses on training Lead Mothers and Community Based Health Workers to mobilise resources for feeding schemes aimed at children under five. Key initiatives include:

  • Cooking Demonstrations: Monthly cooking demonstrations feature nutrient-rich Maoresa porridge, designed to provide essential vitamins and minerals to combat malnutrition. These sessions have expanded to involve men in the community, encouraging them to participate in meal preparation and nutrition education.
  • Community Engagement: Lead Mothers recruit mothers and guardians into ‘Neighbour Groups’ of 10 or more, fostering community support and resource sharing. The programme has also actively involved men by encouraging them to support their partners in childcare and nutrition efforts, thereby promoting a more inclusive approach.
  • Screening for Malnutrition: Regular screenings are conducted by Community Based Health Workers to monitor the health of children and ensure timely intervention when needed. Men in the community have been engaged in these screenings, helping to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and health among families.

Impact and Outcomes

The impact of the Kuwirirana Care Group has been profound:

  1. Improved Nutritional Status: The feeding programme has resulted in noticeable improvements in the nutritional status of participating children. Parents have reported increased energy levels and better overall health among their children.
  2. Community Awareness: The initiative has raised awareness about nutrition and health issues within the community. Families are now more knowledgeable about balanced diets and the importance of nutrient-rich foods.
  3. Increased Participation: The involvement of men in nutrition education and meal preparation has fostered a sense of shared responsibility in childcare. This shift has not only strengthened family bonds but has also encouraged men to take an active role in supporting their partners and children.
  4. Sustainability Efforts: The active participation of traditional leaders, including Chief Charewa, has helped in mobilising resources and sustaining community interest in the initiative. Their involvement ensures that the programme is integrated into local governance and development plans.

Chief Charewa, Janha Village, Ward 1, Mutoko District – Chief Charewa highlighted that the care group model programme has helped the community’s efforts in combating child malnutrition. 

Conclusion

The Kuwirirana Care Group exemplifies the transformative power of community-driven initiatives in enhancing food and nutrition security. By prioritising the nutritional needs of children and actively involving men in the process, this group is not only addressing immediate health challenges but also laying the groundwork for a healthy community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: Takashinga Women in Action Centre– Empowering Women Against Malnutrition and Poverty

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

The Takashinga Women in Action Centre in Sanyati District, Mashonaland West, has emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women facing the multifaceted challenges of food and nutrition security and poverty. Established in the early 2000s, Takashinga Women in Action Centre began as a platform for women to discuss and address issues affecting their livelihoods, ultimately leading to the creation of an agriculture business centre designed to enhance food and nutrition security and economic stability.

Background

Recognising the pressing challenges faced by women and children, Government collaborated with key stakeholders to establish Takashinga Women in Action Centre, which focuses on empowering women through agricultural activities.

Key Initiatives

The centre spans six hectares of arable land, with current activities focusing on:

  • Poultry Production: The project includes raising broilers and roadrunners for meat and egg production.
  • Market Gardening: Women cultivate various vegetables including cabbages, tomatoes and maize, significantly contributing to improved nutrition within the community.
  • Fruit Production: Key fruits such as Papaya and Masawu are grown to diversify income sources.
  • Income Savings and Lending (ISALs): This initiative supports financial literacy and savings among participants.

Impact and Outcomes

The initiatives at Takashinga Women in Action Centre have led to substantial improvements in household income and food security. Currently, 33 women actively participate, fostering collaboration and reducing instances of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the community. Improved access to nutritious food has been a critical outcome, helping families to combat malnutrition and improve overall health.

Women of child bearing age testified that they have been able to bear healthy children due to diversity of food they have been consuming since the initiative commenced. Most of the mothers are happy with the growth of their children.

Women of child bearing age testified that they have been able to bear healthy children due to diversity of food they have been consuming since the initiative commenced. Most of the mothers are happy with the growth of their children.

Testimonials and Community Feedback

Beneficiaries have expressed gratitude for the positive changes in their lives, highlighting improved income and food and nutrition security. For instance, a project member reported her ability to feed her family and send her children to school, which was previously unmanageable due to financial constraints.

Mrs Nongai, a member of the project, highlighted that before the intervention they were living in poverty and were failing to send their children to school. 

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite notable successes, challenges persist particularly concerning water availability for irrigation. The centre is currently under-utilising its six hectares of land due to limited water access which hampers its capacity to produce sufficient food and meet community needs. Ongoing efforts are required to secure additional funding and resources for the centre’s expansion and sustainability.

Conclusion

The success of Takashinga Women in Action Centre underscores the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing social and economic challenges. By empowering women and fostering collaboration, Takashinga Women in Action Centre is paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future in Sanyati District, significantly enhancing food and nutrition security for its members and their families.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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