Assessing Programme Strategies in Managing Child Stunting at the Health Facility Level in Matelile Community Council

Abstract:

Stunting is an important indicator for child growth and health facilities have played a pivotal role in contributing to the overall reduction in stunting rates. This qualitative study aimed at understanding interventions employed by health facilities to reduce under 5s stunting. Health facilities have reported an increase in stunting in Matelile Community Council. Although the study revealed available health strategies including nutrition education, health promotion and breastfeeding programs to curb the disproportionate rates of stunting, the challenges facing the implementation of such programmes included lack of funding and failure for caretakers to cooperate. The study recommended therefore that, increasing funding into nutrition related programs and training appropriate health personnel on stuntedness could go a long way to reduce stunting in under 5s.