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SPRING's First Micronutrient Powder Distribution in Namutumba

SPRING/Uganda is implementing a micronutrient powder (MNP) program, focused on children aged 6 to 23 months. “Point-of-use,” or “home-based” fortification is used to reduce the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies, including iron deficiencies, and anemia in children. SPRING is using two methods for distributing the MNPs and related materials: facility-based and community-based. With the facility method, MNP materials are stored at the facilities. Caretakers with a child 6-23 months old who visit the health centers are given a two-month supply of MNPs and the related materials. Materials were distributed to 18 health centers in Kibaale, Magada, and Namutumba sub-counties, which serve 8,129 children 6-23 months.

For the community arm of distribution, 122 village health teams (VHTs) were trained about counseling techniques, monitoring and evaluation, and distribution of MNPs. They received MNPs and related materials during facility-based distribution events, which they took back to their villages to distribute to 6,852 children in Ivukula, Nsinze, and Bulange sub-counties.