Government Publishes New Nutrition Strategy

The Government has introduced a new nutrition strategy in a bid to reduce the national stunting rate from 32% to 15% by 2030.

Vice President Mrs Nalumango explained that the country has already made progress, with stunting rates falling by 3% in recent years. Secretary to the Cabinet Mr Kangwa spoke on behalf of the Vice President at the launch of the 2026 National Food and Nutrition Security Policy today.

Mr Kangwa announced that the initiative marks an important step in Zambia's drive towards sustainable human development.

The Ministry of Health was praised by Mr Kangwa for its efforts to tackle malnutrition.

He proceeded to comment that a multi-sectoral approach is needed to address the challenge, whilst the new strategy is designed to tackle various forms of malnutrition.

Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Vice President, Ms Kapusana, said the launch of the strategy marks a major step towards strengthening food and nutrition security.

Ms Kapusana explained that the 2026 National Food and Nutrition Security Policy replaces the 2006 policy and enables the Government to support practical interventions.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms Mutali, described Zambia's nutrition situation as urgent, noting that whilst malnutrition is declining, it still affects millions of people.

She also endorsed the Government's new policy and strategy, saying they demonstrate strong political commitment, with President HH and the Vice President having championed nutrition through various initiatives.