Nutrition

Malnutrition in Ghana: A policy crisis hiding in plain sight

Published

1 year ago

June 28, 2025

Let's fight malnutrition in Ghana

For many Ghanaians, “malnutrition” is often misunderstood as simply a lack of food. But nutrition experts say the reality is far more complex and far more urgent. It is not just about being hungry. It’s about not getting the right nutrients at the right time, especially for children under five and pregnant women. While the consequences are dire, the real danger lies in how little political attention the issue receives.

According to the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, 12 per cent of children are underweight, and 6 per cent suffer from wasting, the most life-threatening form of malnutrition. Meanwhile, anaemia affects nearly 50 per cent of women of reproductive age, increasing risks during pregnancy and childbirth.

Nutrition interventions, like vitamin supplementation, school feeding, and treatment for severe malnutrition, are essential to saving lives and securing a healthy population. Yet only 0.4 per cent of the national health budget is allocated to nutrition-specific interventions. Many programs are heavily reliant on foreign aid, which is not only unsustainable but risky. The recent withdrawal of USAID support left a $156 million funding gap, threatening the availability of life-saving nutrition and health services.

The economic cost of this crisis is staggering. Ghana loses an estimated GH₵4.6 billion annually due to the long-term effects of malnutrition on productivity, education, and healthcare. Children who are stunted are more likely to struggle in school, earn less as adults, and suffer from chronic illnesses, all of which lock families into cycles of poverty.

But Ghana can reverse this trajectory. The experience of countries like Rwanda and Peru shows that with strong political commitment, dedicated budget lines, and multisectoral coordination, nutrition outcomes can improve dramatically.

That’s where the Nourish Ghana Project comes in. Led by Women, Media and Change (WOMEC) Organisation, the project aims to raise awareness and push for policy reform through advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and media mobilisation.

Nutrition

Wheat ‘angwa mo’ recipe

Published

1 day ago

October 17, 2026

WeeklySpectator

Ingredients

-Oil

-1 large onion

-2 cups of rice

-Salt

-2 cups of wheat

Preparation

-In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-low heat

-Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and turns golden brown

-Wash rice and wheat and put into pan. Sauté for two to three minutes, until toasty and fragrant

-Add water and salt and allow to boil.

– Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

-Taste the rice/wheat; if it is still a bit firm, add a few more tablespoons of water and cook a few more minutes.

-When the rice/wheat is ready, take it off the fire and serve hot

Benefits of wheat

–Improves digestion: High levels of insoluble fibre- wheat promotes regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut microbiome.

-Supports heart health: Whole-grain wheat helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, and decreases the risk of stroke and heart disease.

-Aids weight management: Complex carbohydrates and dense fibre slow digestion, increase feelings of fullness, and help prevent sharp blood sugar spikes.

-Lowers type 2 diabetes risk: Steady glucose release and minerals like magnesium improve insulin sensitivity.

– Provides essential vitamins and minerals: Wheat supplies B vitamins, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium, which help build bones and boost immune function.

–Delivers Antioxidants: Compounds like phenolic acids, ferulic acid, and lutein protect cells from oxidative stress and support eye health.

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