Title:
Violations of the International code of marketing of breastmilk substitutes in Nigeria : an analysis of factors influencing the regulatory authority in code implementation
Authors:
Edwards, E.O.
Place:
Amsterdam
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2012
PAGE:
xiii, 109
Language:
eng
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Keywords:
health
,
markets
,
maternal and child health
,
policy
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Violations of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS) in Nigeria by infant food manufacturers/marketers (IFMs). OBJECTIVE: The thesis aimed at analyzing possible contributory factors and identifying those influencing NAFDAC’s regulatory capacity for Code implementation in order to provide recommendations to policy-makers and NAFDAC management. METHODS: Literature (document) review was used to gather relevant information. A conceptual framework adapted from Aarons et al (2011) was used to analyze possible contributory factors and identify those influencing NAFDAC’s Code implementation. Samples of BMS were examined for labelling compliance to the Code and regulations. RESULTS: From the external environment, major factors influencing NAFDAC’s Code implementation were identified as weak leadership for policy (Code) implementation, inadequate federal funding, inadequate legislative provisions to suit Nigeria’s social framework. Within NAFDAC, major factors identified are ineffective BMS registration, weak capacity for Code monitoring and enforcement, compromise of established Code regulations/ policies/procedures probably resulting from ‘regulatory capture’ by IFMs. Other factors include inadequate numbers of Code-trained personnel and mismatch between professional competencies and assigned tasks.CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Many factors have contributed to Code violations in Nigeria. Major recommendation to policy-makers: assume leadership for driving the policy process through to policy (Code) implementation by advocacy in relevant quarters for adequate funding. To NAFDAC management: include Code specialists in registration approval committee, mobilize resources for increased and sustained capacity-building of regulatory officers for Code implementation and external stakeholder engagement, establish a Code Centre of Excellence within NAFDAC.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Organization:
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Country:
Nigeria
Region:
West Africa
Training:
Master in International Health (MIH)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2012 Edwards
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
455666.pdf