Partnering with UNFPA to reduce anaemia among women and adolescent girls in Nigeria
2018-2021
Working with UN Population Fund, we're increasing knowledge and awareness of iron-folic acid supplementation and healthy diet among adolescent girls, women of reproductive age, and healthcare workers.
Integrating nutrition into SRHR programming
Globally, iron deficiency is a common cause of anaemia during pregnancy and a major cause of perinatal and maternal mortality and morbidity.
Malnutrition before and during pregnancy can lead to low birthweight babies, stunting and increased risk of death for both mother and newborn.
Low birthweight is the leading cause of infant death in the first week of life, while those who survive often suffer from a range of health issues.
In Nigeria, the level of anaemia among women of reproductive age and adolescent girls is severe (57.8%). A weak health system limits access to health commodities and essential medicines, including iron-folic acid supplementation, which is an evidence-based intervention proven to prevent, control and reduce anaemia.
This project is an opportunity to directly integrate nutrition into existing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) programming. Anaemia alone affects over 600 million women globally between the ages of 15 and 49, the exact same people that would benefit from improved access to SRHR services.
Existing UNFPA programs in Nigeria:
Joining the forces of NLIFT and UNFPA
Folate/Folic Acid
Iron
This initiative seeks to increase knowledge and awareness of iron-folic acid supplementation and healthy eating among adolescent girls, women and healthcare workers.
Through an NLIFT and UNFPA co-investment, this project will integrate into and leverage:
The Impact
Disseminating nutrition information on a national scale
This initiative will reach millions of community members with sexual and reproductive health and nutrition information, and give thousands of adolescent girls access to the UNFPA's safe spaces program and knowledge on iron-folic acid supplementation.
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