Objectives
An evaluation of MNP scale up in Turkana, Kenya by assessing methodology evidence of program success, limitations and challenges and coverage strategies
Methods
World Vision collaborated with WFP to scale up coverage of MNPs in Turkana Central, South and East Sub-Counties targeting 8746 children for 12 months from November 2014 from 46 health facilities and 46 mobile clinics. Each child was given 30 sachets for 60 days. Mothers returned to health facilities for additional sachets and Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) conducted home follow up. Sensitization and trainings were conducted targeting Ministry of Health officials, health workers and CHVs. Mobilization of caregivers was conducted at all levels. CHVs supported house to house registration and health workers provided key messaging on MNPs and reported distribution.
Results
The project targeted all children 6-23 months. Post distribution monitoring was conducted to test acceptability of MNPs. By end of eighth month, 10,049 children had been given MNPs (15% above estimated target), 30 mother support groups sensitized, 49 health workers and 188 CHVs trained. Reporting for MNP by health facilities using District Health Information System improved to over 70%.
Conclusions
Multiple Micronutrient Powders are an effective strategy in addressing micronutrient deficiency in communities where the diet diversity cannot be met using locally available resources. To increase coverage priority should be on increasing the distribution points, strengthening default tracing through CHVs and addressing barriers that affect uptake. MNP should be integrated into community strategies.
