Nutrition
Nutrition as smart economics: Why Ghana must invest in it
When national development is discussed, the spotlight often falls on roads, factories, employment, and technology. Yet, one of the most powerful engines of economic growth remains overlooked: nutrition. A well-nourished population is not just healthier, it is smarter, more productive, and better positioned to drive Ghana’s transformation.
The hidden cost of malnutrition
Malnutrition is not only a public health crisis; it is a silent drain on the economy. According to the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS 2022), countries lose up to 3percent of GDP annually due to poor nutrition. For Ghana, this means billions of cedis lost every year through lower productivity, weaker educational outcomes, and soaring healthcare costs. Malnutrition robs the nation of its human capital; the very foundation of sustainable growth.
Nutrition: An investment, not an expense
The evidence is clear: nutrition delivers some of the highest returns on investment of any development intervention. Every cedi spent on nutrition generates multiple benefits:
Higher productivity: Healthy, well-fed workers contribute more to the economy.
Better education outcomes: Children who eat balanced diets learn faster and perform better in school.
Reduced healthcare costs: Preventing malnutrition lowers the burden of disease and reduces long-term treatment expenses.
In short, nutrition is not charity, it is smart economics. Ghana cannot afford to postpone action.
Why Ghana must act now
Ghana has already made bold commitments at the 2025 Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit, pledging to halve child stunting and reduce anemia in women. But without adequate financing and political will, these promises risk becoming empty words.
Nutrition interventions such as exclusive breastfeeding promotion, school feeding programmes, and micronutrient supplementation require sustained investment. Without dedicated budget lines and accountability measures, the cycle of malnutrition will continue to undermine development.
A call for leadership and accountability
Nutrition must be placed at the heart of Ghana’s development strategy. Policymakers, parliamentarians, and development partners need to treat nutrition with the same urgency as infrastructure or energy. Civil society organizations, the media, and citizens must also play their part by demanding accountability and ensuring that nutrition remains high on the national agenda.
The truth is simple: a nation cannot grow on an empty stomach. By investing in nutrition today, Ghana secures a healthier, wealthier, and more resilient future. A nourished Ghana is not just a healthier nation; it is a stronger, more prosperous one, ready to achieve its vision of inclusive growth.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the world turns pink to remind us that early detection and prevention save lives. But beyond the screenings and campaigns, there’s another powerful prevention tool many people overlook: nutrition.
Emerging research shows that what we eat can influence our risk of developing breast cancer. Diets high in processed foods, red meat, and refined sugars can increase inflammation and disrupt hormones—conditions that support the growth of cancer cells.
On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains provides the antioxidants and nutrients the body needs to protect cells from damage.
Foods like tomatoes, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines) are especially beneficial. They help reduce inflammation and support hormone balance, both critical in breast health. Meanwhile, limiting or avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, and maintaining a healthy body weight are proven ways to lower one’s risk.
Nutrition alone isn’t a guarantee against cancer, but it’s a vital part of a healthy lifestyle that also includes regular exercise, adequate sleep, and routine breast checks.
At Women, Media and Change (WOMEC), we continue to advocate for women’s health through information and empowerment. We urge women everywhere to eat right, get screened, stay informed, and take charge of their well-being.
Every healthy choice brings you one step closer to prevention. The right diet doesn’t just nourish your body—it could help save your life.
Feature article by Women, Media and Change under its “Nourish Ghana: Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition” Project.
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Ingredients
• 2 ripened plantains
• 6 eggs
• 1 bottle vegetable oil
• 2 large onions
• 2 large tomatoes
• Bell pepper (green, red, yellow) – 1 each
• Cheese (optional)
• 5 sausages
• Seasoning
• Salt to taste
• 3 tablespoonfuls of curry powder
• 2 tablespoonfuls of thyme powder
Method
Wash and cut the ripened plantains into smaller round shapes. Sprinkle some salt on them and mix thoroughly.
Preheat oil in a pan and fry the plantains until golden brown, then set aside.
Break the eggs into a bowl, add a pinch of salt and seasoning, and whisk together.
Pour some oil into a pan and add diced onions, bell peppers, and fresh tomatoes. Add chopped sausages and lightly season with a pinch of salt, seasoning, curry, and thyme powder.
Allow to fry for about three minutes, then pour the mixture into the bowl of whisked eggs and mix to form a uniform blend.
Pour the mixture into a pan and neatly arrange the fried plantains on top. Sprinkle cheese over it (optional).
Cover the pan and cook under low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes until set and golden.
Remove from heat, transfer onto a flat plate, and cut into triangular slices.
Serve and enjoy your delicious Plantain Pizza! 🍕
By Theresa Dzifa Tsetse
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