Title:
Feasibility of a training combining multiple nutrition interventions to improve the diet in families with malnourished children in rural Tanzania: a mixed-method pilot study
Authors:
Beijneveld, Nathan
Place:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Year:
2025
PAGE:
84
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Keywords:
Malnutrition Soybeans Sack gardening Tanzania Nutrition Sensitive Intervention
Abstract:
Introduction Childhood malnutrition in Tanzania remains a pressing public health concern, with high relapse rates following initial treatment for severe acute malnutrition (SAM). There is an urgent need for Community-based strategies that go beyond hospital-based care to prevent recurrence and support sustained recovery. Methods This mixed-methods pilot study assessed the feasibility of a combined training intervention on soybean consumption and sack gardening among caretakers of malnourished children in Shirati, Rorya District. The intervention included cooking demonstrations, an instruction video on soybean preparation, and practical sack gardening sessions. Data was collected through surveys, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and observations during home visits. Results A total of 51 caretakers participated in this study; follow-up visits were completed for 47 households. At follow-up, 46.8% of households had soybeans or soybean products present, and 59.6% maintained an active sack garden. Participants expressed high satisfaction and found the interventions culturally appropriate. Key facilitators included the instructional video, cooking demonstrations, and the provision of gardening materials (seeds and sacks). Barriers included limited availability and affordability of soybeans, long preparation time, and challenges maintaining sack gardens. Cultural beliefs, gender dynamics, and seasonal factors also influenced dietary behaviour and intervention uptake. Conclusion The combined intervention was found to be potentially feasible in terms of acceptability and demand. Despite challenges, this pilot demonstrates the relevance of integrated nutrition interventions to improve household diets and reduce malnutrition relapse. Long-term follow-up and broader policy support are recommended to ensure sustainability and scalability
Organization:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute) Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
Institute:
KIT Institute
Country:
Tanzania
Region:
East Africa
Training:
Master of Science in International Health
Right:
© 2025 Beijneveld
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
dzQaDPJZlM_20251211133119413.pdf