Katsina State has received a significant boost in its fight against child malnutrition, with the delivery of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) worth N400 million.
The life-saving supplements, aimed at addressing severe acute malnutrition among children in the state, are expected to benefit over 8,000 children.
In addition to the RUTF, 1,400 nutritional supplements have also been procured for distribution to children whose cases of malnutrition are not yet severe.
This effort underscores the state government’s commitment to tackling the high rates of malnutrition that continue to plague the region.
Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the Ministry of Agriculture Warehouse in Katsina on Wednesday, UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, highlighted the critical importance of the RUTF.
“These therapeutic foods are not just supplements; they are life-saving interventions for children suffering from severe malnutrition,” Munduate stated.
The RUTF was procured through a collaborative effort between the Katsina State Government and UNICEF, funded by the Child Nutrition Match Fund.
This partnership reflects the urgency of addressing the malnutrition crisis in the state, where thousands of children are at risk due to inadequate nutrition.
Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, who was present at the ceremony, acknowledged the severity of child malnutrition in Katsina.
He expressed his gratitude for UNICEF’s unwavering support and reassured the public of his administration’s dedication to improving child health and nutrition in the state.
“We are committed to ensuring that no child in Katsina suffers from malnutrition. This support from UNICEF is crucial, and we will continue to work tirelessly to combat this challenge,” Radda affirmed.
The handover ceremony was also graced by two UNICEF Campaign Champions—renowned Kannywood/Nollywood actor Ali Nuhu and actress Rahama Sadau—alongside other top UNICEF officials.
