In a proactive move to intensify nutrition efforts across the East and Southern Africa region, the SUN Civil Society Network (SUN CSN) has launched a strategy refresh of the ‘sun civil society network 3.0 strategy (2021–2025)’ aimed at scaling up nutrition interventions and ultimately eradicating malnutrition globally by 2030.
The network boasts of over 4,000 members spanning more than 50 countries worldwide, working towards ending malnutrition through collaborative action.
Addressing stakeholders at the regional meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya, Mr. Andrew Rooke, Senior Development and Sustainability Adviser at the SUN CSN Secretariat underscored the significance of the strategy refresh in aligning organizational objectives, particularly emphasizing the imperative of diversification.
Rooke emphasized: “For us success means amplifying the voice of the marginalized, diversity is really key for any organization and for us, that means including everybody, from the disabled community to rural and urban populations within each country. We strive to ensure that every segment of society is represented, ensuring that every voice is heard.”
According to World Health Organization (WHO) 390 million adults aged 18 and above were dealing with Malnutrition with the most at risk being children under five.
WHO estimates 149 million children under the age of 5 years are suffering from stunting linked to malnutrition.
Women, children, and adolescents were noted to be at a higher risk of malnutrition especially in low and middle-income countries where nearly half of the deaths of children under five are linked to undernutrition.
Highlighting the critical role of diversity in addressing malnutrition, Rooke emphasized the necessity of inclusive decision-making processes.
He stated: “It is crucial to engage marginalized groups, especially women and girls, who often endure the most severe consequences of malnutrition. By including them in discussions and solutions, we ensure that interventions are tailored to their needs, thus effectively addressing the root causes of malnutrition.”
The strategic refresh embarked upon by SUN CSN signifies a concerted effort to integrate diversity into the fabric of nutrition initiatives, not only within the organization but also in global platforms where these issues are being addressed and discussed, recognizing its pivotal role in achieving sustainable outcomes in the fight against malnutrition by fostering inclusive practices and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.
“Different voices offer various perspectives, bringing invaluable insights and expertise to the decision-making process. Whether it is deliberations at the World Health Assembly or discussions surrounding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), all voices must be heard and included. This ensures that policies, laws, and targets formulated on a global scale reflect the needs and realities of everyone they impact.”
He added: “Such inclusive participation not only fosters sustainability but also instills a sense of ownership and responsibility among all stakeholders towards achieving these shared agreements, targets, and goals.”
