Isiolo, Kenya| Isiolo County has taken a historic step in the fight against child malnutrition by hosting the national launch of the Nutrition Improvement for Children through Cash and Health Education (NICHE) program.
This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at enhancing child nutrition and overall well-being in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), was officially launched today in a high-profile event attended by national and county leaders, development partners, and international stakeholders.
The launch was presided over by Isiolo Deputy Governor Dr. James Lowasa and Deputy County Commissioner Christopher Siele, who emphasized the urgent need for collaborative action to address malnutrition among children.
“We are committed to improving the lives of our children and families. The NICHE program is a game-changer in our battle against child malnutrition and poverty. No child should suffer due to inadequate nutrition,” stated Dr. Lowasa.
A Lifeline for Vulnerable Households
The NICHE program, backed by UNICEF, the World Bank, and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), provides a dual intervention approach: cash transfers and health education.
The initiative specifically targets pregnant women and children under three years—a critical phase for cognitive and physical development.
Dr. Lawrence Mwongela, County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Finance and Economic Planning, underscored the program’s potential impact, citing scientific research that highlights the first 1,000 days of life as crucial for long-term health and development.
“Through NICHE, we can prevent the devastating effects of malnutrition, which can permanently impair a child’s growth and cognitive abilities,” he noted.
Isiolo County, like many ASAL regions, faces severe food insecurity, high malnutrition rates, and limited access to healthcare.
The NICHE initiative seeks to empower vulnerable families with financial support and vital knowledge on proper nutrition and childcare.
A Collective Effort to End Child Malnutrition
Speaking at the event, Eri Mathers, Chief of Child Protection at UNICEF, praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of multisectoral collaboration.
“The launch of NICHE in Isiolo marks a major milestone in Kenya’s efforts to address child malnutrition. When governments, development partners, and communities work together, we can secure a healthier future for our children,” she remarked.
Beyond Isiolo, the NICHE program will be rolled out to other ASAL counties, aiming to create long-term, sustainable impacts on child nutrition across Kenya.
The program will also complement existing social protection programs, including INUA Jamii and the Hunger Safety Net Program (HSNP), by ensuring the most vulnerable families receive targeted support.
Dr. Lowasa reiterated Governor Abdi Ibrahim’s unwavering commitment to tackling malnutrition in Isiolo, highlighting the role of positive parenting education in sustaining behavioral changes necessary for improved child nutrition.
High-Level Representation and International Support
The event drew the participation of key national and international stakeholders, including:
- The British High Commission
- The Chinese Embassy
- UNICEF
- The World Food Programme (WFP)
- State Department of Social Protection and Senior Citizens Affairs (Representing Chief Guest, P.S. Joseph Motari)
- State Department of ASALs and Regional Development (Representing P.S. Warfa Warasame)
- State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards (Representing P.S. Mary Muthoni)
Additionally, senior county officials attended, including:
- Lucy Kagwiria Kaburu, CEC for Health Services
- Ali Wario Sarite, CEC for Water
- Mohamed Boru, Deputy County Secretary, NGO Coordination and Partnerships
Delegates from other counties, including West Pokot, also joined the launch, underscoring the national significance of the NICHE program for ASAL counties.
A Transformative Path Forward
The launch of the NICHE program marks a crucial milestone in Kenya’s fight against child malnutrition.
With strong government backing, financial support from international partners, and active participation from local communities, the initiative is poised to create lasting change in the health and well-being of thousands of children in Isiolo and beyond.
As the program expands, it is expected to reshape child nutrition policies and intervention strategies, ultimately paving the way for a healthier, stronger generation in Kenya’s ASAL regions.
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