From 11 to 13.2 Centimeters: A Grandmother's Journey to Save a Child from Malnutrition

In Siem Reap Province, child malnutrition remains a serious concern. According to the Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey (CDHS) 2022, 24 percent of children under five are stunted, 10 percent are wasted, and 19 percent are underweight. These findings highlighted an urgent need for action in communities such as Krolanh District, where families continue to face challenges in accessing and applying proper nutrition practices for young children.

To help address these issues, World Vision International in Cambodia introduced the Grandmother Inclusive Approach (GMIA) in partnership with the Committee for Commune Women and Children (CCWC). The programme recognizes that raising healthy children is not the responsibility of mothers alone. In many Cambodian families, grandmothers play a central role in caring for children and influencing household decisions about feeding and health.

Across three communes in Krolanh District, community volunteers and CCWC members have been trained to deliver a 12-session behavior change curriculum focused on child nutrition, health, and caregiving practices. Through monthly sessions and intergenerational meetings, families are encouraged to work together to improve the well-being of children.

Among those leading the effort is Mrs. Voeun Soriya, 33, a Community Facilitator who has spent more than three years working closely with caregivers and grandmother groups.

"Every month, we bring mothers, caregivers, and grandmothers together to learn about proper child feeding, hygiene, and nutrition," she said. "The most rewarding part is seeing families apply these practices at home and witnessing healthier children as a result."

Mrs. Soriya explained that grandmothers are highly respected in their communities and often influence decisions about childcare. By involving them directly, the programme helps reinforce positive practices while encouraging families to move away from harmful traditions.

Her colleague, Mrs. Solikat, 38, has also witnessed the positive changes brought by the programme. Working alongside community facilitators, she encourages families to participate in the monthly learning sessions and health monitoring activities.

"When grandmothers and caregivers attend the sessions regularly, they gain confidence and practical knowledge that they can use immediately," Mrs. Solikat said. "Many families tell us they are now paying more attention to nutritious foods, growth monitoring, and seeking health services when needed."

She added that strong collaboration between CCWC members, community volunteers, and health workers has been essential in sustaining the programme's impact.

Both women expressed their gratitude to World Vision International Cambodia for building their capacity and equipping them with the skills needed to serve families more effectively.

"We are proud to contribute to improving the health of children in our communities," said Mrs. Solikat. "The training and support we have received have strengthened our ability to help families create healthier futures for their children."

The programme's impact can be seen in the story of Mrs. Saret, a 48-year-old grandmother from Krolanh District. When a child under her care was identified with severe acute malnutrition, she was determined to act.

After attending GMIA sessions, Mrs. Saret learned how to prepare more nutritious meals, improve feeding practices, and regularly monitor the child's growth with support from community volunteers and health staff. She diligently applied the lessons at home and followed the guidance she received throughout the year.

Her commitment paid off. Over 12 months, the child's Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) improved from 11 centimeters, indicating severe acute malnutrition, to 13.2 centimeters, a healthy nutritional status.

"The knowledge I gained helped me understand how important balanced nutrition is for children's growth," Mrs. Saret said. "I am very happy to see the child's health improve. I would like to thank World Vision and the community volunteers who supported and encouraged us throughout this journey."

Stories like Mrs. Saret's reflect the wider impact of the Grandmother Inclusive Approach in Krolanh District. In FY25 alone, the programme enrolled 585 grandmothers and caregivers, benefiting 661 children, including 327 girls. More than 2,400 children received nutrition screening, enabling early identification and referral of children needing treatment and support.

By empowering grandmothers, strengthening community systems, and encouraging shared responsibility for childcare, the GMIA and CCWC partnership is helping families transform knowledge into action. As communities continue to embrace this approach, more children in Siem Reap are gaining the opportunity to grow healthier, stronger, and better prepared for the future.