UNICEF Bauchi Government Match N600 Million to Fight Malnutrition Among Children

The Bauchi State Government has demonstrated its commitment to eradicating child malnutrition by releasing N300 million to the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF) managed by UNICEF.

This contribution matched by UNICEF, brings a combined total of N600 million dedicated to improving child nutrition in the state.

The fund is part of ongoing efforts to tackle malnutrition, a significant public health challenge affecting children in Bauchi.

Speaking at a recent event, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique Chief of the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, emphasized the dire nutritional status in the state and the importance of sustained resource mobilization and maternal care to reverse the trend.

She commended Bauchi’s local government chairmen for their financial contributions and urged the state government to continue enhancing their support, including skills training for birth attendants and advocating for early initiation of breastfeeding.

Bauchi State Nutrition Officer, Abubakar Saleh, expressed gratitude to UNICEF for their support in improving health outcomes for pregnant women and children under five.

He highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts such as community mobilization and behavioral change initiatives aimed at boosting breastfeeding rates and nutritional practices.

Governor Bala Mohammed also highlighted other health sector investments, including the recruitment of healthcare workers, construction of health facilities and upgrades to the salary structure for health personnel.

These initiatives complement the nutrition fund and demonstrate the state’s dedication to holistic healthcare improvement.

The partnership between UNICEF and Bauchi State is expected to significantly improve the nutritional status and overall well-being of children, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development and enhanced public health in the region.