Tackling Malnutrition in Uganda through Community Outreach

Civil unrest, locusts, drought, rising food prices and loss of income from COVID-19 has threatened food security for refugee settlements in Uganda. In 2021, USA for UNHCR supported the launch of an innovative pilot program targeting pregnant women and children in the Kyangwali settlement to reduce anemia and promote nutritional diets. 

Community Care Group visits, led by neighborhood volunteers, provided vital information on nutrient-rich foods, micronutrient supplementation, good hygiene and sanitation practices and the importance of breastfeeding. Refugee volunteers also grew demonstration gardens to help train families to cultivate fresh vegetables. 

At the end of the pilot period, reductions in anemia were documented in children and pregnant women. Plans now include integrating these successful elements into future nutrition programs.