The Paediatric Society of Ghana is urging the Government to bolster the school feeding programme as part of efforts to tackle child malnutrition across the country.
In a communique issued following its annual general meeting, the Society underscored malnutrition as a persistent challenge with far-reaching implications for the nation's growth and development. The Society, represented by its President, Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye, and Secretary, Dr. Gabrielle Obeng-Koranteng, emphasized the importance of initiatives to enhance food security and nutrition.
While acknowledging the Government's school feeding initiative as a positive step towards addressing malnutrition, the Society stressed the need for increased funding to expand its coverage. Currently implemented in selected districts, the programme has the potential to meet the nutritional needs of children nationwide if adequately supported.
The communique praised the Government's efforts in combating malnutrition through various initiatives, including the national nutrition policy, the school feeding programme, and the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative. However, it called for a scaling up of efforts, particularly in funding and extending the programme to reach more beneficiary schools.
Furthermore, the Society emphasized the importance of safe food cultivation and continuous capacity building for mothers and healthcare providers to ensure quality nutrition before and during pregnancy.
Drawing attention to the exacerbated situation of children in the Volta Region amid ongoing flood devastation, the Society appealed for increased support for affected communities.
In conclusion, the communique stressed the crucial role of nutrition in securing the future of the country, emphasizing that adequate physical, mental, and cognitive development hinges on good nutrition during childhood.
The annual general meeting, held in Ho under the theme “The Economic and Social Impact of Child Malnutrition on Ghana's Long-Term Development,” saw participation from over 200 members of the Society. The event featured a business conference and an exhibition focused on addressing child malnutrition and its impact on Ghana's long-term development.
