By Neo Kolane
Prime minister Sam Matekane has called on AU member states to share lessons learnt in addressing malnutrition to fast-track global and continental targets.
He said using data and evidence would help to inform investment decisions and ensure accountability.
Matekane also commended the AU for developing a strategic framework on prevention and management of anaemia in Africa, a multi-sectoral nutrition policy framework, and a funding target for nutrition investment in Africa.
He said these strategic documents will guide and guarantee domestic resource allocation for nutrition programming.
Matekane said this during the 37th Ordinary Session of African Union Summit which started yesterday and is ending today at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The theme for 2024 is: “Educate an African fit for 21st century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong quality and relevant learning in Africa.”
The theme, with focus on education, presents yet another unique opportunity for member states to drive increased integration of nutrition within the education sector.
“Despite the malnutrition challenges facing the African child, our continent is making notable progress in ensuring that our children are well nourished, and well equipped to face the future. In 2023, at least 30 percent of children under five years were stunted, down from 34 percent in 2012.
“In addition, the number of AU member states with high prevalence of stunting has declined from 46 in 2012 to 28 in 2023” Matekane noted.
