Child mortality, malnutrition rates decline yet persist

• By Veronica Amaral

Recent statistics from the Ministry of Health show that under-five mortality has decreased by 48 % since 2005; still, 2618 children passed away in 2022. Although the mortality rate for children aged 5 to 9 and teenagers decreased, 1087 children and adolescents passed away in 2022.

Approximately 16.8 per cent of children are stunted due to chronic malnutrition, which indicates long-term nutritional deprivation that can have ever-lasting effects on physical development. Around 5.3 per cent of children are classified as overweight for their age.

Moreover, many Global Acute Malnutrition cases have been recorded in Oshana 8419, Khomas 7363, Hardap 1639, Kunene 1237, and Omusati 1129. According to the ministry, over 191,353 children have been screened between January and June this year. With 10,151 children treated for malnutrition per region between January and June this year.

Severe acute malnutrition recorded 10,848 burdens, and moderate acute malnutrition recorded 24,518 burdens. The ministry has taken vital actions to implement mobile clinics, integrated outreaches, and service delivery in underserved/hard-to-reach affected populations. Strengthening Evidence Generation through nutrition SMART Survey and supporting Mass Screening nationwide. Finalization of the Wasting Treatment protocol for SAM and MAM treatment and for Outpatient and Inpatient Treatment guidelines for malnutrition. Strengthening interagency and intersectional coordination mechanisms/platforms at national and sub-national levels for optimal utilization of limited resources.

The ministry added that there are some challenges and gaps in Malnutrition in Namibia, such as additional funding for MAM management. Equipment for Clinics, Health Centers, and Community Health Workers. Human Resources for Quality of Care is available at district and community levels. Furthermore, the ministry urges the parliamentarians to Enact laws that promote. Protect and support child nutrition—representation of the multiple interests and views of the citizenry—oversight of government programmes. Budget for nutrition interventions Share information about malnutrition. Enhance food security in homesteads & promote and encourage the practice of breastfeeding.