By Dean Chisambo
The Civil Society Organization Nutrition Alliance (CISONA) has expressed deep concern over the decline in nutrition financing, warning that it poses a significant threat to the health of Malawians across the country.
Speaking during the 2025 Global Day of Action for Nutrition, CISONA Board Chairman George Kaunda lamented that despite numerous commitments made by stakeholders in the nutrition sector, including government, implementation remains a major challenge. “Quick and direct implementation of these commitments is a must if Malawi is to achieve its 2030 target of zero malnutrition,” Kaunda emphasized.
Kaunda also urged development partners to scale up their support on nutrition issues, noting that their current level of support is woefully inadequate. “We need more resources to address the scourge of malnutrition in Malawi,” he stressed.
Principal Secretary of Administration in the Ministry of Health, Beston Chisamile, acknowledged that evidence on the ground shows significant gaps and challenges in addressing malnutrition. He emphasized the need for collaboration between government, civil societies, and development partners to tackle the problem.
“We need to look at the evidence on the ground, the collaboration, the issue of pooling resources together is still needed,” Chisamile said. He promised that the government is committed to surpassing the challenges and achieving better nutrition outcomes for Malawians.
The 2025 Global Day of Action for Nutrition was commemorated under the theme: “Strong Food System, Better Nutrition For All.” The event highlighted the urgent need for increased investment in nutrition to address the country’s malnutrition challenges.
Malnutrition remains a significant public health issue in Malawi, with high rates of stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children under five and pregnant women. The decline in nutrition financing is likely to exacerbate these challenges, making it even harder for the country to achieve its nutrition goals.
CISONA’s call for increased investment in nutrition comes as the country grapples with food insecurity and economic challenges. The organization is urging stakeholders to prioritize nutrition and work together to address the country’s malnutrition crisis.
