Kamuli, Uganda: The Parliamentary Committee on Nutrition has launched a new strategy aimed at reducing malnutrition and improving food security in Kamuli District through strengthened school feeding programmes, household nutrition initiatives and community sensitisation.
The committee, led by Hon. Okyaye Peter, the Member of Parliament for Bukoli County in Namayingo District and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Nutrition, held a strategy meeting with district leaders, technical officers and community representatives at Kamuli District Headquarters to identify practical interventions for addressing persistent nutrition challenges.
The discussions focused on expanding community nutrition programmes, promoting household food production and strengthening school feeding initiatives to improve children’s health and learning outcomes.
Kamuli District Nutritionist Kako Betty said malnutrition remains a major public health concern in the district, with women and children bearing the greatest burden.
“Malnutrition in Kamuli District is slightly higher than the national statistics. Women and children are the most vulnerable people and they need targeted interventions,” Kako said.
She noted that improved nutrition requires coordinated efforts involving government, development partners, schools and communities.
As part of the visit, committee members toured vegetable gardens in Bukose LC I, Balawoli Sub-county, where they assessed ongoing community efforts to produce nutritious foods.
Speaking during the inspection, Hon. Okyaye emphasised that sustainable nutrition begins at household level and called for greater investment in kitchen gardens and school feeding programmes.
“Food security and nutrition must start at the household and school. When children eat well, they learn better and grow healthy,” Okyaye said.
Committee member and Buzaaya County MP Martin Muzale Mugabi urged families to revive the cultivation and consumption of traditional nutritious foods to strengthen children’s immunity and reduce malnutrition.
“Let us go back to growing nutritious foods. Foods that build immunity in children are available. Parents should plant and feed children well,” Muzale said.
The committee also encouraged local leaders to intensify community sensitisation campaigns on balanced diets, child nutrition and proper feeding practices, especially among vulnerable households.
Officials announced that the 2026 National Nutrition Day celebrations will be held on Friday, June 26, at Iganga District Headquarters, with the Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, expected to officiate as chief guest.
District leaders pledged to work closely with Parliament to promote vegetable growing, strengthen household nutrition education and enforce school meal standards as part of the district’s long-term nutrition improvement strategy.
The Parliamentary Committee on Nutrition continues to conduct oversight visits across the country to support government efforts aimed at reducing malnutrition, improving food security and achieving better health outcomes for children and vulnerable populations.
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