NDPC, WFP launch food nutrition programme to reduce malnutrition

The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), has launched the Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network (SBN), an initiative aimed at coordinating efforts of the private and business sectors towards reducing malnutrition.

Launched in Accra yesterday, the programme would also mobilise businesses to invest in innovative, responsible and sustainable actions and operations.

It also sought to create public awareness to attract more members into the network and build momentum for its operationalisation.    

Ghana has been an active member of the global SUN Movement since 2011, with the NDPC acting as the coordinating institution responsible for the movement in the country.

This movement consists of stakeholders from sectors such as the government, civil society, businesses, academic and development partners who are collaborating to reduce malnutrition. 

Planning group

As part of the operationalisation process, a Cross-Sectoral Planning Group (CSPG) for food systems and nutrition security was set up as a platform to bring stakeholders together.

It consists of networks representing specific groups such as the SUN Development Partner Network, SUN Civil Society Network and the SUN Academic Network.

As part of its objectives, the movement aims to support businesses to integrate and improve nutrition within the context of their country’s national nutrition priorities.

It also works at improving the practices of businesses, improving relationships among businesses and between businesses and governments to enhance food systems.

Private sector

The Vice-Chairman of the NDPC, David Quaye Annang, said the private sector was increasingly recognised by public sector actors as a key contributor to both social and economic development.

“Nutrition offers opportunities for businesses to increase sales and profits in a sustainable way that contributes to both social and economic development,” he said.

Mr Annang said that the SBN would harness the expertise, reach and market impact of the private sector to improve nutrition for consumers. 

Commitment

For her part, the Country Director of WFP, Aurore Rusiga, expressed commitment to help address the nutritional challenges in collaboration with both the private and the public sectors. 

She said the organisation would continue to support governments to strengthen social protection and food systems to deliver improved nutrition for the most vulnerable while equipping them to better cope with future shocks. 

Ms Rusiga, however, said that the government’s support in policies, incentives and capacity-building would be instrumental. 

“To other development partners, community-based organisations and other stakeholders, let us continue to provide the technical expertise and resources.

“As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that nutrition is not just a health issue,” she said.