Nutrition

Ghana’s bold nutrition for growth commitment: From promises to action

Published

9 months ago

August 30, 2025

At the 2025 Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit in Paris, Ghana made bold and ambitious commitments to improve the nutritional well-being of its citizens, particularly women and children. These targets if fully implemented have the potential to transform health outcomes, reduce preventable deaths, and unlock national development gains.

Among the commitments announced, Ghana pledged to:

Halve the rate of stunting among children under five.

Reduce anemia in women of reproductive age by 50 per cent.

Cut low birth weight cases by 30 per cent.

Increase exclusive breastfeeding rates to 70 per cent.

Integrate multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) into antenatal care.

These goals are in line with World Health Assembly nutrition targets and represent a significant step toward addressing the country’s persistent burden of malnutrition. Currently, one in five Ghanaian children is stunted, and nearly half of women of reproductive age suffer from anemia; a situation that weakens productivity, undermines child development, and strains the health system.

Why these commitments matter

Nutrition is not only a health issue; it is an economic and development imperative. Studies have shown that countries lose up to 3 per cent of GDP annually due to malnutrition, while every cedi invested in nutrition generates multiple returns through improved productivity, education, and reduced healthcare costs.

By committing to these targets, Ghana is signaling political will. But political will must translate into action. Civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and communities all have a role to play in holding government accountable and ensuring that nutrition remains a national priority.

Turning commitments into reality

While the commitments are commendable, the real test lies in implementation. To move from promises to results, Ghana must:

Back commitments with financing. Nutrition interventions must be prioritized in the national budget, with clear allocations and accountability mechanisms.

Strengthen health systems. Integrating micronutrient supplementation and scaling up antenatal care services will require capacity building and supply chain improvements.

Engage parliament and policymakers. Sustained advocacy is needed to ensure nutrition commitments do not get lost in competing political priorities.

Mobilize communities and the media. Public awareness and behavioral change campaigns through churches, schools, and radio can drive adoption of healthy practices such as exclusive breastfeeding.

Track progress transparently. Independent monitoring of stunting, anemia, and low birth weight rates is crucial for evaluating impact.

The commitments made in Paris are not just statistics, they represent brighter futures for Ghanaian children, healthier mothers, and a stronger, more productive nation. Now is the time to turn words into action.

Nutrition

Benefits of Avocado

Published

22 hours ago

May 16, 2026

WeeklySpectator

Avocado

Avocado is a healthy addition to our diet, offering a rich blend of essential nutrients, heart-friendly fats, and fibre that support overall well-being.

Avocado is not merely a trendy fruit; it is a nutrient-packed powerhouse that can transform your breakfast into a healthy and satisfying meal.

From enhancing your energy levels to supporting overall well-being, here are eight detailed benefits of incorporating avocado into your morning routine:

-Rich in essential nutrients

Avocados are a treasure trove of vital vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of potassium, which supports muscle function and helps regulate blood pressure. Additionally, they contain vitamin K, crucial for blood clotting and bone health, vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and brain health.

– Promotes heart health

Avocados are abundant in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower levels of harmful cholesterol while increasing beneficial cholesterol. Regular consumption of these healthy fats as part of a balanced diet may reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

– Provides sustained energy

Unlike sugary breakfast options that can lead to an energy slump later in the day, avocados provide a steady source of energy. Their combination of slow-digesting healthy fats and dietary fibre keeps you feeling full and energised throughout the morning, making them an ideal choice for busy days.

– Aids in weight management

Despite their relatively high caloric content, the healthy fats and fibre in avocados can promote a feeling of fullness, helping to reduce overall calorie intake. This makes them an excellent option for those seeking to manage their weight without resorting to restrictive diets.

– Supports digestive health

Avocados are rich in dietary fibre, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fibre promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to overall digestive wellness.

– Improves skin health

The healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants found in avocados are highly beneficial for skin health. These nutrients help to nourish and hydrate the skin from within, protect against damage caused by free radicals, and promote a natural, radiant complexion.

– Boosts cognitive function

The fats in avocados, along with their high folate content, support brain health. These nutrients are associated with improved cognitive function and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Including avocado in your diet can help keep your mind sharp and focused.

– Highly versatile and delicious

Avocados are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of breakfast dishes. Their creamy texture and mild, buttery flavour make them an deal addition to sweet and savoury meals alike. Pulse.gh