Tuesday, February 14, 2024, marked a significant milestone for our Championing Nutrition and Gender Equality (CHANGE) project as we had the privilege of hosting Mylène Paradis, Director General of Partnerships for Health, and Social Development at Global Affairs Canada. This special occasion celebrated the culmination of our efforts in the outdooring of the Integrated Nutrition Team (INT) members at Daasuyilli in the Tolon district in the Northern Region of Ghana.
At the heart of the CHANGE project lies a profound commitment to enhancing nutritional outcomes for the most vulnerable populations, particularly focusing on pregnant and lactating women, along with their children, in disadvantaged regions of Ghana and Ethiopia. Funded by Global Affairs Canada through Children Believe Ghana, this initiative represents a collaborative endeavor aimed at fostering sustainable change and empowering communities.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the CHANGE project operates in 108 communities across 9 districts spanning the Northern, Savannah, and Upper East regions of Ghana. This expansive reach underscores our commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in our pursuit of nutrition and gender equality.
The significance of addressing nutrition and gender equality cannot be overstated. In many parts of the world, including Ghana and Ethiopia, women and children face disproportionate challenges when it comes to accessing adequate nutrition and healthcare. Gender disparities intersect with socioeconomic factors, cultural norms, and systemic barriers, exacerbating the vulnerability of marginalized populations. According to a publication by the World Food Program in 2022, approximately 60% of the world’s hungry population are women and girls. In sub-Saharan Africa, women and girls often eat last and least within their families, leading to higher rates of malnutrition among them.
Through the CHANGE project, we strive to address these complex issues holistically. By leveraging on partnerships with governmental agencies, CSOs, and local stakeholders, we aim to implement integrated solutions that address the root causes of malnutrition and gender inequality. Our approach emphasizes community engagement, capacity-building, and empowerment, recognizing the inherent strengths and resilience within each community.
The inauguration of the INT members at Daasuyilli is a testament to our collective efforts in action. These teams, comprised of dedicated individuals from diverse backgrounds including healthcare professionals, community leaders, and volunteers, serve as catalysts for change within their respective communities. They will facilitate awareness campaigns, provide education on nutrition and healthcare practices, and offer support to pregnant women and mothers.
Central to our approach is the recognition of the interconnectedness between nutrition and gender equality. Empowering women and girls is not only a matter of social justice but also a prerequisite for sustainable development. When women are empowered with access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, they become agents of change within their families and communities. Investing in women’s health and well-being yields results that extend far beyond individual benefits, contributing to the overall prosperity and resilience of societies.
As we reflect on the goals of the CHANGE project and look towards the future, we remain committed to our vision of a world where every individual can thrive in a healthy body and mind. Our journey is marked by collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can champion nutrition and gender equality, paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mylène Paradis, Global Affairs Canada, Children Believe Ghana, and all our partners and stakeholders who have made this transformative journey possible. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, towards a world where every child and every woman can reach their full potential.