Suaahara II

OVERVIEW

USAID’s Suaahara II partners with the Government of Nepal, the private sector, and other USAID activities, to improve the nutritional status of women and children within the 1,000 days period from conception until the child reaches 24 months of age, in 42 underserved rural districts of Nepal.

HIGHLIGHT

USAID’s Suaahara II covers about half of Nepal’s population, reaching over two million children under 5 years, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers with a comprehensive, home-based program. This promotes improved nutrition and health behavior change; use of quality health and nutrition services; access to diverse nutrient-rich food. 

USAID Supports a Multi-Sectoral Approach to Improving Nutrition: 

USAID is using a multi-sectoral approach to implement community programs that improve nutrition; maternal, newborn, and child health; family planning services; water sanitation and hygiene practices; and home-based gardening.  This involves a behavior change strategy to foster adoption of key health and nutrition practices.  As part of Nepal’s Multi Sectoral Nutrition Plan, USAID collaborates with federal, provincial and local government’s Nutrition and Food Security Steering Committees to implement data driven multi-sectoral nutrition programs.

USAID Uses Evidence to Engage with Marginalized Communities: 

USAID collects and uses real time information to reach marginalized households and communities with health and nutrition services and information.  To promote household gender equity, husbands and in-laws are encouraged to make small changes in their daily routines that increase the sharing of responsibilities by family members both inside and outside the home.

USAID Practices Localization: 

At the federal level, USAID supports the National Planning Commission, Ministry of Health and Population, and other government institutions to develop and implement nutrition policies and programs.  At subnational levels, USAID collaborates with municipal authorities, health facilities, extension workers, and female community health volunteers to address barriers to quality nutrition and health services.