Understanding acute malnutrition among pastoralists in northern Kenya

Rates of acute malnutrition are very high, especially among children, in northern Kenya. The report “Back to basics: understanding the problem of persistent global acute malnutrition in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties, Kenya” (2024, 80pp) by Helen Young et al, published by Feinstein International Center, Tufts University, presents the findings of a study of seasonal and longer-term trends in acute malnutrition and its drivers. It was carried out at four sites, corresponding to four different livelihood systems: Laisamis (pastoralism) and Loiyangalani (fisher pastoralism) in Marsabit County, and Garbatulla (agro-pastoralism) and Ngaremara (mostly mixed peri-urban with pastoralism) in Isiolo Country. The authors highlight potential policy impacts and opportunities for institutional change in development and humanitarian efforts. They call for prioritising humanitarian interventions that support pastoralist livestock production and mobility.

The 2-year study (2021–23) was part of the USAID Nawiri programme implemented by a consortium led by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), in collaboration with Tufts and Kenyatta Universities and Caritas.

Posted on 6 October 2024 in Pastoralist Livelihoods & Nutrition