By Kansiime Ruth
Project Overview: The project focused on exploring how gender dynamics contribute to malnutrition, particularly among women and girls in Uganda. The research was conducted in two distinct locations: Bubukwanga Village in Bundibugyo District and Kalerwe Village in Kampala District. The project sought to investigate how societal norms, cultural beliefs, and gender roles impact access to healthy diets and contribute to gendered disparities in nutrition and health outcomes.
Objective: The primary objective was to understand the gendered aspects of malnutrition, gathering insights on how women and girls face unique challenges in accessing nutritious food and healthcare. Additionally, the project aimed to inform gender-sensitive interventions that could improve nutritional outcomes for women and girls.
Methodology: The project utilized qualitative research methods, including focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs). Participants included women and girls from the communities, health workers, and local leaders with knowledge of community nutrition programs and gender dynamics. Data was collected from September 1st to October 25th, 2024.
Key findings
- Cultural Beliefs and Societal Norms: In both districts, traditional gender roles were found to dictate who had access to resources, including food. Women and girls often prioritized the nutrition of male family members over their own needs.
- Limited Decision-Making Power: Women and girls, particularly in rural areas, faced challenges in accessing nutritious diets due to limited decision-making power within households and communities.
- Economic Barriers: The economic situation of women, especially in urban slum areas, significantly limited their ability to afford balanced diets. Teenage mothers and adolescent girls were particularly vulnerable to nutritional insecurity.
Recommendations
1. Targeted Nutrition Education: Programs should focus on educating women and girls about the importance of balanced diets, micronutrient intake, and addressing nutritional needs during different stages of life.
2. Male Involvement: Men should be actively included in nutrition programs to help shift gendered power dynamics and improve overall family nutrition.
3. Support for Adolescent Mothers: Skilling initiatives and microfinance support for women, particularly adolescent mothers in urban slums and rural areas, can increase their purchasing power and improve their nutritional health.
Click here to download the full report on exploring the role of gender in exacerbating malnutrition among women and girls in Bukukwango, Bundibugyo and Kalerwe, Kampala District here