BY NED GAGAHE
UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch has called for urgent intervention to tackle the growing malnutrition crisis in the Solomon Islands, describing the country as facing the “triple burden” of malnutrition.
Speaking at the launch of a new SBD 28.7 million (US$3.4 million) nutrition program at the Japanese Embassy yesterday, Mr. Veitch highlighted the alarming statistics: 32% of children under five are stunted, 8% are wasted (low weight for height), and 39% are anaemic.
He revealed that overweight and obesity affect 23% of children aged 13-17, largely due to unhealthy dietary habits including low consumption of fruits and vegetables and high daily intakes of sugary soft drinks.
“These are the issues we are facing with the triple burden of malnutrition,” Mr. Veitch said.
“But these are also the challenges we will overcome with this program.” He said.
The newly launched partnership, which involves UNICEF and the Government of Japan, aims to address these critical issues by focusing on school nutrition and local food production. The initiative will start in Isabel and Western Provinces, targeting nearly 3,000 children in the pilot schools, with a long-term goal of reaching over 30,000 children across the country.
The project will provide healthier, locally grown food options in schools, replacing unhealthy processed foods, and will also focus on improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. In addition, the program will help schools implement meal guidelines, raise awareness about safe food handling and healthy local foods, and encourage local communities to grow nutritious crops like sweet potatoes, cassava, yam, and pumpkins.
“We will support local communities to produce more nutritious foods and link these communities with nearby schools, ensuring a fresh and steady supply of healthy food for school meals,” said Mr. Veitch.
“This will reduce the reliance on imported and processed foods, boost the local economy, and promote healthier lifestyles for children and adults.”
Ambassador Keiichi Higuchi of Japan also praised the partnership, noting that it would significantly improve nutrition and hygiene in four boarding schools in Isabel and Western Provinces, benefiting the surrounding communities.
The initiative, he said, would provide sustainable food production support and contribute to better health outcomes for the Solomon Islands’ youngest generation.
Mr. Veitch expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan for its generous financial support and also acknowledged the collaboration of the Solomon Islands Government, particularly the Ministries of Agriculture and Livestock, Education and Human Resources Development, and Health and Medical Services.
“Let’s act to ensure that this program transforms the eating culture and environment at the community level, for our children and their families,” Mr. Veitch said.
“UNICEF remains committed to ensuring that our youngest generation has the healthy future they deserve.”
The program is a vital step toward addressing the country’s nutrition challenges, ensuring that future generations of Solomon Islanders can thrive and fulfill their potential.
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