Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
LEADING nutrition experts have proposed concrete solutions to eliminate malnutrition and secure the nation’s development.
Speaking at a food security dialogue in Harare, Zimbabwe Civil Society Organisations Scaling Up Nutrition Alliance official Mr Kudakwashe Zombe said investing in good nutrition was not merely a health imperative but a fundamental economic strategy.
Mr Zombe called for prioritised funding and consistent implementation of current nutritional policies and stronger collaboration across sectors.
He also said there was a need for community-based nutrition education programmes to foster lasting dietary changes.
“Nutrition is not just a health issue, it is an economic imperative,” Mr Zombe said.
“If we improve nutrition outcomes, we could raise GDP by as much as 12 percent. That is why we say nutrition is the key to national progress.”
Health journalist Mr Michael Gwarisa detailed targeted interventions for Zimbabwe’s triple burden of malnutrition.
“To combat stunting,” he said, “We advocate for improved maternal and child nutrition practices and micronutrient supplementation.”
He said addressing anaemia required scaling up food fortification and ensuring consistent iron-folate supplementation for pregnant women.
For rising overweight and obesity, Mr Gwarisa said there was a need to promote healthy diets and lifestyles and integrate nutrition support within the healthcare system.
Acknowledging existing policies, both experts stressed the urgency of translating them into action with adequate funding.
Mr Zombe said neglecting nutrition would severely hinder Zimbabwe’s future development.
“It is the most critical investment for the nation’s progress.”
