Nutrition Crisis in Gwoza
Every hour, 100 children under 5 years die of malnutrition in Nigeria, according to The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), that is, Nigeria loses about 2,400 children to malnutrition daily.
This suggests that high food prices and general food insecurity may already be consuming the lives of babies and toddlers by the hour.
The Nutrition Sector, through the Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) working group, shared the Nutrition Crisis Alert received at the various reception centers, Sentinel surveillance, SMART surveys, and Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) admission trend across Borno State LGAs, which reveals a consistently worsening nutrition situation and very low Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) geographical coverage, especially in Gwoza, Monguno, Ngala, and Nganzai LGAs of Borno State.
Most wards in the Local Government have been affected by a severe malnutrition crisis.
To this end, Lindii Peace Foundation (LPF), with support from Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UKAid), through UNICEF RRM effectively provides timely nutrition assistance through simplified approaches for 6 targeted wards across Gwoza LGA, Borno State, with a population of 29,078 vulnerable individuals.
Within the months of July and August, 2775 children across all the OTPs in Warabe, Kirawa, Izge, Gava Agapalawa were successfully screened by LPF nutrition team.
Mass MUAC screening was carried out to provide a proxy indication of the nutrition situation in Pulka Community. In addition to this, the screening facilitated active case finding. Referral of severe acute malnutrition cases identified to the nutrition facility for admission and treatment. During the screening, children with MUAC measurements between 11.5 to 12.5 cm, who did not present medical complications were directed to receive intervention at our mobile Outpatient Therapeutic Programs (OTPs).
Children exhibiting MUAC measurements below 11.5 cm, along with signs of Oedema, were referred to stabilization centers (SCs) for more intensive care. Overall, the MUAC screening process plays a pivotal role in the early detection and intervention of malnutrition, ensuring that affected individuals receive appropriate care and support timely.
Ready to use therapeutic food (RUFT) was as well distributed to identified children for a quicker recovery.
Lindii Peace Foundation is, and will always be a safe haven for children and all people seeking assistance and intervention.
