Beyond Government: The Role of Civil Society and Media in Ending Malnutrition

 Nutrition is everyone’s busi­ness. While the government must lead the charge in fight­ing malnutrition, real progress depends on strong partnerships, especially with civil society organ­isations (CSOs), the media, and everyday citizens.

At a recent capacity-building workshop, stakeholders gath­ered to discuss the deeper, often overlooked drivers of malnutrition in Ghana and how to address them. Among the recurring themes was the need for citizen-led account­ability and advocacy, espe­cially around maternal and child nutrition.

Civil society plays a unique role in bridging the gap between national policy and community needs. CSOs can advocate for more transpar­ent budgeting and spending on nutrition, monitor service delivery at local health fa­cilities, elevate the voices of women, caregivers, and youth and hold duty-bearers ac­countable for missed targets and delays.

At the same time, the media holds a powerful key to public change. Through journalism, radio, television, and digital platforms, media professionals can make complex nutrition issues understandable, relatable, and urgent. Whether it’s exposing underfunded districts or spotlighting grassroots nutrition champions, the media can drive the national conversation.

Ordinary citizens also have a role to play. You have a role, too. Ask your local assembly member what the district’s nutrition budget looks like. Demand nutrition education in schools. Encourage radio stations to run nutrition-focused programs. Advocate for clean water and food safety in your community.

Malnutrition affects all of us, whether directly or indirectly. In­vesting in nutrition means investing in our children’s ability to learn, our women’s ability to work, and our country’s ability to thrive.

Women, Media and Change (WOM­EC) remains committed to support­ing this movement, one story, one voice, and one platform at a time.

Feature article by Women, Me­dia and Change (WOMEC) under its Nourish Ghana: Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition project.