Name: The unsung heroes fighting malnutrition
Uploaded: 2024-03-07T15:48:06Z
Duration: 12 min 22 s
Description: The pastoralists in Africa sustainably produce meat and milk to help feed the continent. But their way of life — and work — is under threat. Food systems advocate Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju explains how best to preserve these vital communities and why they're key to solving the nutritional challenges of Africa's children.

Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju: The unsung heroes fighting malnutrition

The unsung heroes fighting malnutrition

The pastoralists in Africa sustainably produce meat and milk to help feed the continent. But their way of life — and work — is under threat. Food systems advocate Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju explains how best to preserve these vital communities and why they're key to solving the nutritional challenges of Africa's children.

Stunting, a hidden crisis affecting millions of children in sub-Saharan Africa, stunts both bodies and minds. Essential nutrients from milk and meat are scarce, yet pastoralist communities—who own 90 percent of Nigeria’s cattle—are struggling to survive amid drought, poverty, and policy neglect. Innovative partnerships and supportive policies, like those in Namibia, can help these herders thrive and nourish the continent’s children. Bridging ancient wisdom with modern markets offers a sustainable way to fight malnutrition at scale.