Kasese fights malnutrition with training

In response to the rising number of disabled and malnourished children in Kasese, residents have formed a support group to address the challenges caused by poor nutrition. 

The group focuses on providing joint medical care and organising nutrition training for affected families.

Speaking during a nutrition training session in Kamaiba Cell, Central Division, Kasese municipality, Friends of Stacey Children's Initiative chairperson Joseph Youngman said "With our membership now grown to about 350 members, we have been able to brainstorm various malnutrition challenges facing our children, including among those with sickle cell disease, meningitis and mental health issues. We’ve also sought medication and joint nutrition orientations to better feed our children."

Youngman said the district loses between five to 10 children monthly due to malnutrition-related complications. However, New Vision Online could not independently verify the claim.

"Our dream is to prevent malnutrition-related deaths and to foster an economically healthy generation of happy and brilliant children," he said.

Isaac Sinamakosa, Vice Chairman of the initiative and a senior environmentalist, painted a broader picture of malnutrition's impact across the country.

He said, "About 11 out of every 100 children are born stunted and malnourished. In Kasese alone, approximately 4.8% of children do not receive adequate food." Isaac added, "That's why the level of stunting in the Rwenzori region is at 40%, with Kasese topping the list."

During the one-day comprehensive nutrition training on January 22, 2025, about 120 men and women, along with their disabled children, were shown nutritious foods they should incorporate into their diets and taught how to prepare them properly.

Facilitator Robinson Kikenge, a specialist in children's health from Kasese Municipal Health Centre III, addressed pregnant women, emphasizing healthy habits during pregnancy:"Eat foods rich in all nutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins—and engage in timely exercise".

"This will help you deliver safe and healthy babies, breastfeed them well, and introduce soft, nutritious foods when they reach six months." He further reminded attendees, "Always go for antenatal check-ups where healthcare workers can provide essential advice."

Attendees shared their thoughts as well. Baleriya Katwanga, 50, attributed disabilities in newborns to the prolonged use of family planning methods. "We used to deliver very healthy children before the introduction of these methods," she said.

Maureen Mbambu, 32, expressed concerns about severe bleeding caused by some pills given during antenatal visits, which has discouraged others from seeking such services.
Responding to these concerns, Robinson reassured the public that family planning methods are generally safe if used correctly and at the appropriate time. 

He urged individuals to consult healthcare providers if they experience adverse reactions to medications, ensuring safer alternatives are provided.

Makerere University chancellor Dr Chrispus Kiyonga has consistently advocated for food security through encouraging the public to grow crops and look after livestock that provide essential nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins to combat stunting in both children and adults.

"Plant beans, groundnuts, fruits like mangoes and pawpaws, and consider rearing affordable animals like rabbits and hens," Kiyonga advised.