The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Gender Equality, Social Development, and Family Affairs has recommended a series of measures aimed at combating malnutrition in Namibia. 

One of the key recommendations is the enactment of laws to promote, protect, and support child nutrition, emphasising the importance of legislation in safeguarding the nutritional needs of Namibian children. 

A total of 191,353 children were screened between January and June this year, of whom 10,151 were treated for malnutrition in the country.

The Hardap Region recorded the highest number, with 2,891 children treated for malnutrition, followed by Ohangwena with 1,747, the |Khomas with 967, and the Erongo Region with 939.

Budgetary allocations specifically earmarked for nutrition initiatives were also proposed to ensure sustainable funding for impactful interventions across the country.

Committee member Dr. Becky Ndjoze-Ojo emphasised the critical need for government investment in agriculture, highlighting it as a key strategy in combating malnutrition, particularly among children.

Sharing information about malnutrition was underscored as critical to raising awareness and fostering community engagement. 

During their visit to the Katima State Hospital, Dr. Helena Bainga, a senior medical doctor, raised concerns regarding inadequate and substandard medical equipment for treating children suffering from malnutrition, resulting in fatalities.

The recommendations also stressed the need to bolster food security at the household level and promote breastfeeding practices as fundamental pillars of nutritional health. 

These measures aim to address the root causes of malnutrition and ensure holistic support for vulnerable children in Namibia.