Japan funds project addressing malnutrition in Namibia

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Addressing malnutrition in Namibia requires a multi-sectoral and 'whole of society' approach.

This would involve dealing with the root causes of malnutrition and a lack of an adequate diet.

To effectively fight malnutrition, stakeholders need to collaborate and ensure effective and successful utilisation of resources.

Robust social safety nets are encouraged to respond effectively to the needs of vulnerable communities that are affected by climatic conditions, and a lack of water, tools, or seeds to grow their own produce.

Malnutrition a key concern

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The Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN) says 600 children die from malnutrition-related deaths annually.

Forty malnutrition-related deaths under the age of five have been reported in the Omaheke Region in the past four months.

The deaths were recorded at health facilities in Omaheke between December last year and March this year.

The Director of NAFSAN said this while addressing the media engagement on Namibia's Nutrition and Food Security Crisis in Windhoek.

45 children die of malnutrition-related conditions

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45 children under the age of five died from malnutrition-related conditions in the Omaheke Region this year.

The Health Director, Jeremia Shikulo, said the region has recorded 132 cases of malnutrition since January.

In a telephone interview with the nbc News team, Shikulo revealed that malnutrition has become a concern in the region owing to a lack of proper diet.

Shikulo added that despite the increase in malnutrition cases, the region's team is also working tirelessly to remedy the situation with soup kitchens and community gardens.