Hunger and malnutrition are significant challenges for children, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where nutritious food may not always be available, affordable, or accessible.
These issues are further exacerbated by conflict, the ongoing effects of COVID-19, the rising cost of living, income inequality, and climate change.
The consequences of child hunger and malnutrition extend beyond health, affecting children’s rights to education, protection from violence, participation, and an adequate standard of living, including healthcare.
In Ghana, malnutrition remains a pressing issue for children across the country.
According to the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) 2022, the national stunting rate is 18%, while the rate of wasting stands at 6%.
Additionally, 12% of children are underweight, and 2% of children under 5 are classified as overweight.
Alarmingly, nearly half (49%) of children aged 6–59 months in Ghana are anaemic, with 28% experiencing mild anaemia, 20% moderate anaemia, and 1% severe anaemia. This figure is notably high compared to WHO standards.
To address this global challenge, World Vision has launched a three-year multi-sectoral campaign called ENOUGH: Ending Child Hunger and Malnutrition, which will run from FY24 to FY26.
The campaign was also launched in the Krachi West and Krachi Nchumuru districts. Program Coordinator Barbara Asare Yeboah stated that the initiative will contribute to the efforts of the government of Ghana and other stakeholders toward ending child hunger and malnutrition.
“This campaign will leverage two out of the three ongoing technical programs: Healthy Environment & Wellness (HEAL) and Livelihood Enhancement & Family Empowerment (LIFE),” she said. The campaign will also collaborate with programs like Reading Improvement & Skills Enhancement (RISE), Community Engagement and Sponsorship Programmes (CESP), and other crosscutting sectors such as Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs, Faith & Development, and Child Protection & Advocacy.
