On 5th December, 2024, CISANET participated in the Global Day of Action, organized by the Civil Society Organization Nutrition Alliance (CSONA), at Kabudula Primary School in Lilongwe. The event aimed at highlighting the critical role of sustainable food systems in combating malnutrition, showcasing best practices and foster collaboration among key stakeholders in the sector.
During the event, several Organizations working in the agri-food systems sector exhibited their interventions aimed at eradicating hunger and malnutrition in Malawi. CISANET had the privilege of showcasing its interventions in various districts across Malawi, which focus on improving food and nutrition security in the country. It strongly emphasized the need to protect and respect everyone’s right to access adequate and nutritious food. Furthermore, the organization stressed the importance of capacitating rural communities in food system transformation to end hunger and malnutrition, which remains a significant challenge in most parts of the country.
The guest of honour, Vera Kamtukule, expressed her delight in organizing the event in a rural area, arguing that good nutrition in remote areas is crucial to achieving global and national aspirations on nutrition, as outlined in Malawi’s 2063 vision. Kamtukule stressed the significance of involving children in tackling nutrition issues, as they are a powerful tool for the country’s development. She emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach, urging that ending malnutrition requires a joint effort from all stakeholders.
Regarding the proposed Food and Nutrition Bill by the Right to Food Coalition, Kamtukule expressed optimism, stating that she hopes there will be no dissenters, as she doubts any member of parliament would be happy to see their constituents suffer from malnutrition. The government is looking forward to tabling the bill in parliament.
Joseph Gausi, CSONA National Coordinator, emphasized the need to sensitize rural communities on food preparation to change social behaviour patterns. He expressed gratitude upon hearing the government’s commitment to deliberating the bill. However, Gausi noted that the civil society is concerned about the time taken to table the bill and will be monitoring the government’s progress, urging them to act with speed and seriousness that the bill deserves.
