A capacity-building workshop aimed at intensifying the fight against micronutrient deficiencies in Africa has concluded in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. The event, organized by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in collaboration with the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement, brought together 20 journalists from 17 African countries, intending to equip them with the tools to become strong advocates in the battle against malnutrition.

Speaking at the workshop, Judith Kabore, the Country Action Specialist for Francophone Africa from the Dakar Hub of the SUN Movement, stressed the urgent need to tackle malnutrition. She highlighted how micronutrient deficiencies continue to affect millions of children across Africa, limiting their growth and development. “Malnutrition has become a big issue that needs urgent attention. African leaders must deliberately and intentionally address these challenges to ensure children receive the nutrients they need to grow well,” she emphasized.

Kabore called on the media to take an active role in raising awareness and advocating for solutions, underscoring their vital role in influencing policy and mobilizing public support for nutritional programs. "Journalists are essential to this fight. Their voices can help push leaders and communities to take decisive actions against micronutrient deficiencies," she added.

The workshop, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, and the Catholic Relief Services [CRS] focused on equipping journalists with the knowledge to report more effectively on issues related to malnutrition. The participants engaged in a series of discussions and interactive sessions aimed at enhancing their understanding of nutrition-related challenges and solutions across Africa.

Representatives from Ghana included Ivy Setordjie from Joy News and Sarah Apenkroh from TV3, both of whom were actively involved in the discussions. The event highlighted the crucial role of journalists in influencing both public opinion and government policies to improve nutrition outcomes on the continent.

The SUN Movement, a global initiative working to end malnutrition in all its forms, aims to ensure children worldwide receive the necessary nutrients for healthy development. The collaboration with CRS and other stakeholders underscores the importance of multi-sectoral approaches to address Africa’s nutrition challenges.

The workshop concluded with a strong commitment from the journalists and communicators to become advocates for change in the fight against micronutrient deficiencies. They pledged to use their platforms to amplify the urgency of this issue, raise public awareness, and hold governments accountable for implementing policies that can alleviate malnutrition across the continent.

As the workshop ended, the call to action was clear: stronger media advocacy, intentional leadership from African governments, and sustained efforts from all sectors are needed to combat the growing issue of malnutrition and secure a healthier future for Africa’s children.