Identification
Title: Ghana: Nutrition Profile
Citation: USAID. Ghana: Nutrition Profile. Updated December 2021.
Provider: United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Summary
The Ghana Nutrition Profile presents a comprehensive overview of the nutritional status and challenges faced by the population in Ghana as of 2021. It highlights the dual burden of malnutrition, characterized by both undernutrition and overweight/obesity, affecting various demographic groups across the country. The profile emphasizes that food insecurity remains a significant issue, particularly in northern regions, where many households struggle to meet their nutritional needs due to poor agricultural conditions and limited access to resources. The document outlines ongoing initiatives and commitments to improve nutrition through various health and agricultural programs.
Version
- Version Date: December 2021
- The profile is periodically updated to reflect changes in nutritional data and programmatic responses.
Scope
The scope includes an analysis of various factors influencing nutrition in Ghana, including dietary practices, health care access, socio-economic conditions, and government policies aimed at addressing malnutrition.
Keywords: Malnutrition, Food Security, Nutritional Status, Health Programs, Agriculture, Policy Initiatives.
Coverage
- Geographic Coverage: Nationwide across Ghana.
- The profile encompasses all regions of Ghana, with particular attention to disparities between urban and rural populations as well as socio-economic variations.
Producers and Sponsors
- Primary Producers: USAID
- Collaborators:
- Government of Ghana
- Various international organizations including the World Bank, UNICEF, and WHO.
The profile also reflects contributions from local stakeholders involved in nutrition and health initiatives.
Sampling
The data presented in the nutrition profile is derived from multiple sources, including national surveys such as the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) and reports from organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP). These sources provide representative data on nutritional indicators across different demographics.
Data Collection
Data collection methods include surveys, administrative records, and assessments conducted by various health and agricultural organizations. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional landscape in Ghana.
Metadata Production
The metadata associated with the nutrition profile includes documentation on data sources, methodologies used in data collection, and guidelines for interpreting the information presented. This transparency is crucial for researchers and policymakers who rely on accurate data to inform their decisions.
Key Findings
- Malnutrition Rates: Chronic undernutrition affects approximately 1.2 million Ghanaians, while rates of overweight/obesity have increased significantly over recent years.
- Food Insecurity: A substantial portion of the population faces food insecurity, particularly in northern regions where agricultural challenges are prevalent.
- Government Initiatives: The Government of Ghana has made commitments through various policies aimed at improving nutrition, including the National Nutrition Policy and participation in global initiatives like the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement.
- USAID Programs: Several USAID-funded projects focus on improving nutrition outcomes through multi-sectoral approaches that integrate health care, agriculture, and education.
The Ghana Nutrition Profile serves as a critical resource for understanding the complexities of nutrition in Ghana. It provides essential insights into current challenges and highlights ongoing efforts to enhance food security and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations across the country.
Downloads
Children’s Health and Nutritional Status in Ghana
