New research to tackle stunting of Indonesia’s children

 

November 17, 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new research project will explore whether micronutrients and better local health systems can help to eradicate Indonesia’s perplexing challenges with stunted growth of children, Creative Associates International announced.

Nearly 36 percent of children age 5 and younger are stunted in their growth, according to the 2014 Global Nutrition Report, which can inhibit cognitive development and have long-lasting consequences for health, employment and wellbeing in adulthood.

“Given Indonesia’s persistent high rates of stunting despite approaching middle-income status, it is critical to understand the various challenges that are inhibiting quality nutrition to children under two years old,” says Rose Mary Garcia, Ph.D., Director of Workforce Development and Youth Employment at Creative and director of the project.

The three-and-a-half year initiative—called the Assessments for the Community-based Health and Nutrition to Reduce Stunting Project—will carry out independent technical assessments as part of the Indonesia Millennium Challenge Account Indonesia Nutrition Project.

The assessments will examine health delivery structures at the sub-district level, the provision of micronutrients, whether micronutrients and supplements used in Indonesia are chemically the most appropriate, and if current production and distribution channels are the most efficient given the challenging geography.

“This project will provide the evidence needed for the successful implementation of the Indonesia Nutritional Project in eliminating Indonesia’s barriers to economic growth and poverty reduction,” says Garcia.

The recommendations made through these evaluations have the potential to reach clinics in 4,600 villages in 11 provinces, as well as Jakarta.

Abt Associates will lead the implementation of this project in partnership with Creative. The project is a Task Order under the Education, Community and Health Development Blanket Purchase Agreement.

About Creative Associates International

Creative Associates International works with underserved communities by sharing expertise and experience in education, economic growth, governance and transitions from conflict to peace.

Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has active projects in more than 15 countries. Since 1977, it has worked in nearly 90 countries and on almost every continent. Recognized for its ability to work rapidly, flexibly and effectively in conflict-affected environments, Creative is committed to generating long-term sustainable solutions to complex development problems.

Started by four enterprising women with diverse backgrounds, Creative has grown to become one of the leaders among the U.S. private sector implementers of global development projects. Creative is minority owned and operated.

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