By Fatou Krubally
The National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) has called for increased investment in financial and human resources, particularly the training of nutritionists and dieticians, to address the country’s growing double burden of malnutrition.
The appeal was made during a six-month briefing between the NaNA Board and Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow at State House in Banjul, according to the Office of the Vice President.
The briefing provided the Board with an opportunity to update the Vice President on the agency’s progress, challenges and strategic priorities, as well as areas requiring government support.
NaNA Board Chairperson Musukuta Komma said the engagement formed part of the agency’s regular accountability process and provided an opportunity to review its oversight responsibilities and achievements.
According to the Office of the Vice President, a major achievement highlighted during the briefing was the development of NaNA’s costed Strategic Plan following the enactment of the National Nutrition Act.
The Board also announced plans to launch the fourth-generation National Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan and called on government, communities, institutions and development partners to support its implementation.
Komma reportedly rated NaNA’s performance at more than 90 percent in terms of execution and compliance, attributing the performance to strengthened governance systems, improved accountability and policy frameworks aimed at ensuring effective management of resources.
She said increased investment in human resources, particularly the training of nutritionists and dieticians, was necessary to strengthen the country’s response to malnutrition.
Vice President Jallow commended NaNA for its reported progress and reaffirmed his support for the agency’s mandate, according to the Office of the Vice President.
He encouraged the Board to expedite the development of outstanding regulations and explore innovative approaches to strengthening the agency’s institutional and financial sustainability.
The briefing comes as NaNA prepares to launch its fourth-generation National Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan, with the agency seeking support from government, communities, institutions and development partners for its implementation.