ANNUAL REPORT 2018

 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

COUNSENUTH works towards improvement of the quality of life of vulnerable groups through provision of affordable interventions that are evidence – based and locally appropriate; advocacy for better governance and accountability, active engagement of citizens at all levels and multi – sectoral collaboration. COUNSENUTH’s work complements the National Nutrition Multisectoral Action Plan, 2016-2021 and the National Development Plan of Action for Tanzania. Programs and projects implemented in 2018 were a continuation of last years except one on Gender and Nutrition which is being implemented in Dodoma since May 2018.

In 2018, the Organisation implemented four key Programs and 3 minor projects with fair success. Here is a summary of key successes.

CURRENT PROGRAMS/PROJECTS: KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR 1.1. ACCELARATING STUNTING REDUCTION PROJECT

Start date: December, 2015 – End date- November, 2019

Accelerating Stunting Reduction Project (ASRP): Implemented in 6 districts of Mbeya in collaboration with CRS, aimed at reducing the prevalence of stunting among young children under-five years of age from 44% in 2017 to 35% in 2020 (i.e. 3.4% average annual reduction rate).The project targets a total of 105 wards out of 140; 670 villages out of 752, reaching a population target of 75% by year 3 and 4. Implementation is

done in 6 Councils: Mbeya DC, Mbeya TC, Rungwe DC, Kyela Dc, Busekelo DC and Mbarali DC.

Key Interventions: Promotion of optimal Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), WASH, Early Child Development (ECD) and Health Practices mainly in the community and increasing agriculture practices for dietary diversity at household.

Key delivery vehicles: Information giving through social behavior change communication, training and counseling, community- based growth monitoring and promotion VHNDs peer support groups and home visits by CHWs.

Beneficiaries: pregnant women, care givers of children under two years and children of pre-school age.

Others: Community workers, extension workers, health facility workers, supervisors, influential leaders, community members and local leaders.

Table 1: ASRP Program Targets Vs Achievements in 2018