Combat Malnutrition in Nigeria

BUHKNOM DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION REPORT ON COMBATING MALNUTRITION PROJECT IN RURAL COMMUNITIES.

_Executive Summary_

The Buhknom Development Foundation (BDF) has implemented two projects to combat malnutrition in rural communities: one in Bukpe, and another in Lanto all in FCT-Abuja. Our goal is to address the high incidence of malnutrition among vulnerable groups, particularly lactating mothers, pregnant women, and children under five. Through our interventions, we have made a positive impact, but sustained efforts are needed to address the root causes of malnutrition.

_Introduction_

Malnutrition is a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas. BDF is committed to addressing the knowledge gap, dietary habits, and healthcare access that contribute to malnutrition.

_Methodology_

Our approach includes:

- Community engagement and leadership involvement
- Selection of beneficiaries (lactating and pregnant women, and children under five)
- Conducting health screenings and assessments
- Providing antenatal care, nutritional supplements, and medication distribution
- Referring complex cases to nearby hospitals

_Findings_

BUKPE COMMUNITY.

The findings reveal a significant prevalence of malnutrition, with 32.5% of the population affected, comprising 12.5% with severe acute malnutrition and 20% with moderate acute malnutrition. Additionally, 3% experience other forms of malnutrition, such as stunting, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies, highlighting a pressing need for targeted interventions to address these alarming rates in Bukpe community and promote overall nutritional well-being.

LANTO COMMUMITY.

- Prevalence of malnutrition in children (20%):
- Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM): 10%
- Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM): 5%
- Stunting: 3%
- Underweight: 2%
- Micronutrient deficiencies

Summary from the two communities.
- High incidence of malnutrition among children and women
- Poverty, ignorance, dietary habits, and lack of healthcare access contribute to malnutrition
- 99% of women reported losing one or more children before, during, or after delivery

_Impact_

- Improved health status of beneficiaries through nutritional supplements and healthcare services
- Increased awareness on proper dietary habits and healthcare seeking behavior
- Strengthened partnership with community leaders and healthcare providers

_Success Story_

Meet Saliu, a life once overshadowed by severe malnutrition. When his family couldn’t afford the care he needed, BDF stepped in. Through our support, Saliu’s mother started a thriving business, and Saliu received the vital nutrition he needed. Today, Saliu is healthy, happy, and thriving, just like his family. BDF’s intervention doesn’t just save lives; it transforms them.

_Next Plan_

We plan to collaborate with General Hospital Kwali, Bwari, and Kagarko to provide routine antenatal drugs to 3000 pregnant women for 5 months during their gestation. Additionally, we will be expanding our project to five new communities before the end of the year, reaching even more vulnerable groups with our life-saving interventions.

_Why Your Support Matters_

Every donation counts in helping us achieve our goal. Your support will enable us to:

- Provide nutritional supplements to vulnerable groups
- Offer antenatal care and medication distribution
- Conduct health screenings and assessments
- Strengthen partnerships with healthcare providers

_Donate Now_

Help us transform lives and combat malnutrition in rural communities. Your donation will make a significant difference in the lives of these women and children.

• COMBATING_MALNUTRITION_IN_RURAL_COMMUNITIES3.pdf (PDF)