Nutrition
Malnutrition costs Ghana billions. Why is it not treated as an economic emergency?
Ghana’s economic conversations often focus on fiscal policy, investment, and productivity. But there is a cost that rarely enters these conversations.
The crippling, compounding cost of malnutrition. According to the Cost of Hunger in Africa (COHA) study, a landmark analysis conducted jointly by the African Union, the UN Economic Commission for Africa, WFP, and UNICEF, malnutrition drains an estimated 6.4 per cent from Ghana’s GDP every year. That is not a nutrition statistic. That is a national economic crisis hiding in plain sight.
What malnutrition actually costs
Malnutrition costs Ghana in ways that are both direct and deeply structural. Stunted children underperform in school, earn less as adults, and are more likely to raise malnourished children of their own, perpetuating a cycle that spans generations. Anaemic women are less productive in the workplace. Malnourished mothers give birth to low-birth-weight babies who face higher rates of illness, hospitalisation, and death. Diet-related diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are rising fast, placing a mounting burden on Ghana’s health system and workforce.
The cost of inaction on malnutrition globally is estimated at $41 trillion over the next decade, according to the World Bank’s Investment Framework for Nutrition 2024. a figure that far outweighs the $13 billion annually needed to scale up proven nutrition interventions. For Ghana, the 6.4 per cent of GDP figure represents billions of cedis lost each year through reduced productivity, increased healthcare costs, and compromised human capital.
A problem that pays to solve
The economic case for investing in nutrition is overwhelming. Every dollar invested in nutrition returns an estimated $16 to the local economy. Scaling up proven nutrition interventions such as breastfeeding support, micronutrient supplementation, school feeding, treatment of acute malnutrition, is not charity. It is one of the highest-return investments a government can make.
Ghana’s commitment at the 2025 N4G Paris Summit to spend $6 million annually on nutrition commodities is a start. But $6 million against a problem that costs the economy billions each year is a fraction of what is needed. Ghana’s finance and planning ministries must be brought into the nutrition conversation, not just the health ministry.
A 6.4 per cent GDP loss would trigger emergency cabinet meetings if it came from any other sector. Malnutrition demands the same urgency. Ghana must stop treating nutrition as a health programme and start treating it as the economic and development priority it truly is.
Feature article by Women, Media and Change under its Nourish Ghana: Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition project
Chicken avocado salad is a fresh, nutritious meal that combines tender grilled chicken with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables.
It’s rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a light dinner. The simple lemon dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce or spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes,
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation
-Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then grill or pan-fry over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
-Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
-In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped herbs.
-Gently add the diced avocado to the salad to avoid mashing it.
-In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon or lime juice (if using), salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
-Add the sliced chicken to the salad, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
-Serve immediately as a healthy main course, or pair it with crusty bread or whole-grain crackers for a more filling meal.
Avocado is an incredibly 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 LDL cholesterol while increasing beneficial HDL 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 monounsaturated 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 ideal addition to sweet and savoury meals alike. Pulse.gh
