Child acute malnutrition rates remain unacceptably high in northern Kenya, with rates of global acute malnutrition persistently exceeding the emergency threshold (15%).

This webinar presents the findings and implications of the USAID Nawiri longitudinal study in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties, Kenya.

The study examined seasonal and longer term trends in acute malnutrition and its drivers across four sentinel study sites, corresponding to four different livelihood systems.

In this webinar, researchers will discuss the study’s findings and their implications for stakeholders, highlighting potential policy impacts and opportunities for institutional change in both development and humanitarian efforts.

This research study is one component of the USAID Nawiri program implemented by a consortium led by Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

The mixed-methods research study was a collaboration between Tufts and Kenyatta Universities, CRS, and Caritas (Diocese of Isiolo and Marsabit) and took place from September 2021 to September 2023. A second parallel study was undertaken by USAID Nawiri led by MercyCorps in Turkana and Samburu Counties.

PANELISTS

Helen Young
Professor, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy
Research Director, Feinstein International Center, Tufts University

Elizabeth Stites
Associate Research Professor, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy
Research Associate Professor, Fletcher School
Research Director, Feinstein International Center, Tufts University

Anastasia Marshak
Research Assistant Professor, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University

Achiba Gargule
Research Coordinator, USAID Nawiri Project, Feinstein International Center, Tufts University

Sophie Ochola
Associate Professor, Department of Food Nutrition and Dietetics, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya

MODERATOR