Nutritional Neglect

Burundi continues to record among the highest malnutrition rates, with the rate of chronic malnutrition nearing 57% (1) . It is also estimated that about 45% of all under-five deaths are due to causes related to malnutrition (2) . This is partly due to recurrent and seasonal food insecurity in most parts of the country. However, malnutrition is overwhelmingly due to inadequate feeding practices within households as well as failure by parents and caregivers to provide a balanced diet to children. The findings of the World Vision baseline survey revealed that only 10% of children aged 6-23 months in Kiganda received at least four food groups during the previous day. An important proportion of the population has been affected by negative practices including using their income or agricultural production in excessive alcohol consumption, with little to no interest in the food need for their children.

(1) The 2016 Global Nutrition Report, From Promise to Impact: Ending Malnutrition by 2030

(2) Black et al. Maternal and Child Nutrition 1, Lancet 2013