A substantial Shs139 billion nutrition project has been unveiled aimed at addressing malnutrition in the Karamoja sub-region. Known as the ‘Gender Equitable Nutrition in Tanzania and Uganda (GENTU)’, this initiative will be executed by Action Against Hunger in collaboration with the Karamoja Women’s Umbrella Organization, spanning across the districts of Nakapiripirit, Moroto, and Nabilatuk.
Funded by a consortium of organizations including the World Food Programme (WFP), Sida Humanitarian, EUTF RISE, Swedish Embassy Resilience, Alborada Trust, the German government, the Netherlands Government, the French government, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees USAID, and Save the Children, the GENTU project aims to enhance nutrition outcomes, particularly for the most vulnerable groups including women, adolescent girls, and children.
Ritah Kabamyoro, the Country Director of Action Against Hunger, underscored the critical need to strengthen the delivery of quality, gender-equitable integrated nutrition and health services, especially for marginalized populations. She emphasized the project’s focus on engaging community leaders to address gender norms that perpetuate malnutrition, while also prioritizing food security through Climate Smart Agriculture to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions in the region.
Grace Ochieng, the Principal Nutritionist at the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of collaboration with district nutritionists in health facilities to ensure effective implementation. She acknowledged the challenges posed by uncoordinated efforts of partners providing ready-packed food and urged for streamlined coordination.
Cornelius Lomuria, the Vice Chairperson for Nabilatuk LCV, highlighted the resilience of Karamoja’s people in agriculture despite climatic challenges. He emphasized the need for community engagement and partnership with local leadership for sustainable outcomes.
Mark Aol Musoka, an Elder in Rupa Sub County Moroto district, proposed the establishment of farmlands in schools to educate and involve learners in agriculture, fostering practical skills that they can apply at home.
Zakary Lokodo, a community-based facilitator for Nutrition in Nabilatuk field office, elaborated on the project’s focus on establishing care groups to empower mothers in addressing nutritional challenges at the household level. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in food production to reduce dependency on external aid.
The GENTU project addresses critical issues such as seasonal food shortages, acute malnutrition, stunting, and adolescent pregnancy in Karamoja, with a holistic approach aimed at improving nutritional outcomes and fostering sustainable development.
