24-11-2023 | di COOPI

DRC. Tackling child malnutrition with the Humanitarian Fund

 

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, more than 2 out of 5 children live in conditions of acute malnutrition. Daouda Mboji, the nutrition Country specialist for COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale in the country, talks about the activities carried out to address the nutritional needs of children in the Djugu area, Ituri district, thanks to the support of the Humanitarian Fund.

With the project “Integrated multi-sectoral emergency assistance in nutrition and child protection for the population affected by the humanitarian crisis in Central Djugu” we operate precisely in the healthcare zones of Fataki, Rethy, and Lita, dealing with the diagnosis and care of more than 2,500 children.

The Ituri district has been the scene of violence between various local groups and militias since 1999, and in the area surrounding the town of Djugu, there has been armed conflict since 2017. Difficult access to some areas increases the risk of mortality among malnourished children under the age of 5. In Fataki, for example, a convoy carrying humanitarian supplies was attacked in late April 2023.

COOPI's presence in the Country for more than 40 years allows a deep and broad understanding of the Country’s background. Particular attention is paid to the prevention, care, and nutritional support of thousands of malnourished children and mothers, to the hygiene practices and agricultural strategies put in place to deal with food emergencies.