In April 2022, FHI 360 commenced the implementation of the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund (NHF) funded scaled-up for the Treatment and Prevention of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM) amongst children under-five and pregnant and lactating women (PLW) in Banki, Bama LGA of Borno State Project. The project aims to ensure comprehensive nutrition program and complement the Integrated Humanitarian Assistance to Northeast Nigeria (IHANN) project’s nutrition intervention to treat malnourished children with complications.

FHI 360, as the only partner providing inpatient nutritional services to the affected population, has facilitated the expansion of the Stabilization Centre from eight (8) to 30 bed capacity with trained doctors and nurses, 11 skilled volunteers, and 12 unskilled volunteers. Through the community volunteers (CVs), FHI 360 screened 7,128 children aged 6-59 months. Those identified with severe acute malnutrition were referred to the stabilization center for treatment and management. At the stabilization center, cases requiring advanced care are further referred to secondary facilities. Also, through outpatient therapeutic programs (OTPs) and community activities, children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) with medical complications are referred to the Stabilization centre for treatment.

The project has made tremendous gains in reducing the burden on parents who would have facilitated their referrals to secondary facilities outside the town and integrated humanitarian assistance to Northeast Nigeria (IHANN) project-supported stabilization centre.

Achievement includes:

1. 21 Health care staff trained on prevention and management of acute malnutrition.

2. 157 caregivers who received skilled Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) support.

3. 157 new Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) cases admitted for treatment.

4. 7,128 individuals screened for malnutrition by community volunteers.

5. 21 community volunteers trained in MUAC screening, referral, and follow-up of Acute malnutrition cases.

Implementing partners: Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNi)

Location: Banki, Bama LGA of Borno State