Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination, George Sinyangwe, has paid tribute to ChildFund Zambia for launching the latest Emergency Response Nutrition Programme worth Nine Million Kwacha.
Dr Sinyangwe says the initiative goes beyond being simply a project, as it aims to support vulnerable Zambians, particularly children and mothers, who are bearing the brunt of one of the most challenging agricultural seasons the nation has faced in over 40 years.
He said Zambia, like many other sub-Saharan countries, is grappling with malnutrition issues, including undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies that affect various stages of the life cycle.
Dr Sinyangwe explained that during childhood, inadequate nutrition can hinder physical and cognitive development, impair community functioning, and lead to acute malnutrition, consequently causing developmental delays, weakened immune systems, and a heightened risk of common childhood illnesses.
He highlighted that poor nutrition during pregnancy can result in anaemia, premature births, and increased mortality rates.
Dr. Sinyangwe said this during the launch of the Emergency Response Nutrition Consultative Meeting in Chilanga District of Lusaka Province, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Ministry of Health Assistant Director for Adolescent Health, Dr Kakungu Simpungwe.
He pointed out that currently, Zambia is facing a severe dry spell in its agricultural season, the likes of which have not been experienced in over four decades.
“This has led to significant challenges in livestock management, a sharp increase in poverty levels, and other manifestations,” said Dr. Sinyangwe.
Speaking earlier, ChildFund Zambia Country Director, Simba Machingaidze, sdaid the Emergency Nutrition Response Project will run for four months targeting Chilanga, Shibuyunji, Rufunsa and Kafue Districts with support from South Korea.
This is contained in a statement issued by ChildFund Zambia Communications Specialist Priscilla Chama-Mpengula.
By Eva Hatontola
