Empowering Change as CASCADE Champions Nutrition Policy, and Women’s Resilience in Nasarawa State By Raymond Enoch

In a significant stride towards combating Nigeria’s nutrition challenges, the CASCADE project, a collaborative initiative by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and CARE International, recently convened a pivotal three-day workshop in Lafia, Nasarawa State. This event, held in partnership with the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Business Network, brought together food entrepreneurs, regulatory bodies, and government officials to discuss and enhance the nation’s nutrition landscape.

The workshop aimed to bridge the gap between food businesses and regulatory agencies, fostering a collaborative environment to strengthen nutrition-focused enterprises.

Participants engaged in comprehensive discussions on Nigeria’s regulatory framework, with insights from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). Topics covered included product registration processes, food safety standards, and compliance requirements, providing attendees with valuable knowledge to navigate the complex regulatory environment.

Government ministries, including Health, Trade & Investment, Women Affairs, and Finance, Budget & Planning, also participated, underscoring the multi-sectoral approach essential for addressing nutrition issues. Discussions centered on how the private sector can play a more active role in improving nutrition outcomes, emphasizing the need for a supportive policy environment that encourages sustainable business practices in the nutrition sector.

A highlight of the workshop was the co-development of a framework for private sector engagement, aimed at fostering partnerships between businesses and government entities. This collaborative effort seeks to create an ecosystem where nutrition-focused businesses can thrive, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing food security and nutrition across Nigeria.

The CASCADE project, funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, operates in Bauchi, Jigawa, Kebbi, and Nasarawa states, targeting over 1.1 million women of reproductive age and children under five. Its objectives include improving access to healthy diets, strengthening nutrition systems, and building resilience against economic and climate-related shocks. By engaging various stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations, CASCADE aims to create a sustainable impact on Nigeria’s nutrition landscape.

This workshop in Nasarawa marks a significant milestone in the CASCADE project’s efforts to catalyze policy action and empower communities. Through continued collaboration and commitment, the initiative aspires to pave the way for a healthier, more resilient Nigeria.