Makueni, Kenya - Makueni County has launched a significant initiative to combat rising malnutrition rates, exceeding the national average. A Sh2.6 million consignment of essential supplies, including nutrition supplements and weighing scales, has been dispatched to the Makueni County Referral Hospital and 121 health facilities across the county.

The move comes as part of a broader effort to address acute malnutrition among children aged 6 months to 5 years, expectant mothers, and lactating women. Eni Kenya is actively supporting this program.

Speaking at the dispatch event, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. emphasized the severe impact of malnutrition on children's growth and brain development. He highlighted the need to prioritize intervention in the most affected sub-counties of Kibwezi East, Kibwezi West, and Mbooni.

"Makueni's malnutrition rates surpass the national average, translating to severe malnutrition for many children," Governor Kilonzo Jr. stated. "We are committed to addressing this critical issue."

The governor stressed the importance of regular monitoring and early identification of malnutrition cases. The provision of weighing scales and supplements to health facilities will play a crucial role in this effort. He also promised another consignment of supplies in three months.

Governor Kilonzo Jr. expressed gratitude to partners UNICEF, Nutrition International, and Eni-Kenya for their invaluable support in combating malnutrition.

He urged breastfeeding mothers to exclusively breastfeed their infants for the first six months, emphasizing its vital role in ensuring healthy child development.

The dispatch event was attended by the Makueni County CECM for Health, Dr. Paul Musila, and representatives of the Eni-Wote branch.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in Makueni County's efforts to address the critical issue of malnutrition and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.