Let's fight chronic malnutrition with a healthy and varied diet!
Chronic malnutrition is one of the main challenges in Mali. This problem particularly affects women and children, making it essential to establish effective programs to improve nutrition. In Mali, the Integrated Fight against Chronic Malnutrition project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, was launched to address this crucial need and support local agriculture.
This project focuses on improving the nutrition of vulnerable populations, especially children and women, by strengthening their access to a varied and nutritious diet. By supporting 40 women's groups, it has not only increased agricultural production, but also improved food security in communities that are often affected by food insecurity.
At harvest time, the village of Douna Ouna in Mali recorded an impressive maize yield of 1,700 kg ($689). This harvest not only represents a source of livelihood for the villagers, but also illustrates the community's collective commitment to self-sufficiency and local economic development.
Most of the maize harvested is destined for self-consumption, ensuring food security for Douna Ouna families. However, a significant part of the harvest is also sold, allowing farmers to generate the income necessary to cover other basic needs such as education, health and the improvement of local infrastructure.
The women in these groups use smart farming methods to maximize their production, even under difficult conditions. These methods include mid-slope planting, respecting the spaces between plots and between rows, crop rotation, use of organic fertilizers and biopesticides, soaking seeds to encourage germination, etc.
By supporting local agriculture through women's groups, Action Against Hunger, with funding from Global Affairs Canada, not only strengthens the food security of communities, but also creates sustainable opportunities for many households by investing in innovative solutions and promoting healthy and diversified diets. In addition, this approach enables women to diversify their income, giving them greater economic autonomy and reinforcing their essential role in the fight against malnutrition.
Together, let's fight malnutrition and build a better future for generations to come.
