Recently, Kaduna State hosted a policy dialogue, aimed at addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges; anaemia. Organized by the Civil Society- Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) in collaboration with partners, the dialogue brought together key state and non-stake actors, development partners, civil society and media to discuss the pressing need for strategic interventions to address the burden of Anaemia.
Malnutrition, particularly anaemia, poses a severe threat to the health and productivity of Kaduna’s population. The National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS 2023) highlighted an alarming prevalence of anaemia among women and children, emphasizing the need for urgent, targeted interventions. Against this backdrop, CS-SUNN sought to generate commitment from key stakeholders to scale up MMS, a proven, cost-effective solution for combating anaemia. The dialogue was convened with two key objectives:
- To educate policymakers about Kaduna’s nutrition challenges, highlighting the critical role of MMS in reducing anaemia.
- To secure concrete commitments towards increased domestic investment in MMS.
The Permanent Secretary of the Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture, Abubakar Abba Umar, stated “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this critical meeting. The topic of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) holds immense significance for the well-being of our communities. In Kaduna State, anaemia remains a pressing health challenge, particularly among women and children, and MMS serves as a proven and cost-effective intervention to combat this issue. As we deliberate today, I am hopeful that our shared commitment will drive impactful strategies for integrating MMS into nutrition programs, fostering healthier outcomes, and strengthening our collective resolve to tackle malnutrition and anaemia.”
Abubakar Abba Umar – Permanent Secretary, Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture said “I am truly delighted to be part of this impactful program. The discussions and insights we generate here will serve as valuable tools to inform and strengthen the legislative process, ensuring that policies and laws are well-grounded in evidence and aligned with the needs of our communities. I am confident that the outcomes of our deliberations will chart a path toward meaningful improvements. I wish us all fruitful and successful discussions as we work together to achieve our shared goals.”
Hon. Barnabas Haruna – Chaiman House Committee on Health, Kaduna State House of Assembly stated “I am very happy to participate in this important meeting, which has been long-awaited and addresses a critical issue: the fight against malnutrition in Kaduna State. The importance of this mission cannot be overstated, as improving nutrition directly impacts health indices and fosters a healthier, more productive population. Partners play an invaluable role in driving these improvements, and the Members of the House of Assembly are central to advancing legislative and oversight functions that support these efforts. Teamwork between the Executive and Legislative arms is essential, as is the active involvement of the media in raising awareness and advocating for change in this regard. Equally important is ensuring effective coordination among partners to minimize duplication of efforts and maximize impact. Let us continue to collaborate effectively and ensure the success of this important initiative.”
Collaborative Commitments for Change
Participants engaged in data-driven discussions and shared experiences on the socioeconomic impacts of malnutrition. Presentations from CS-SUNN and other experts emphasized the importance of MMS as a critical intervention in addressing anaemia. Stakeholders acknowledged that strategic investments in nutrition could lead to improved health outcomes and long-term economic benefits.
The dialogue culminated in a communiqué that outlined specific commitments towards addressing anaemia and improving the uptake of MMS in the state. Participants stressed the need for grassroots advocacy, leveraging platforms like Ward Development Committees (WDCs) to promote MMS adoption with Civil Society Organizations/development partners committing to joint advocacy, capacity building for health workers, and supporting the integration of MMS into the Essential Medicines List (EML).
