Improving Nutrition through Plant-Based Diets

Problem Statement

Uganda faces significant challenges in food security and malnutrition, with recent data from the Uganda National Household Survey (2019−2020) showing an increase in food-insecure households from 37% to 39%, particularly in regions such as Ankole, Kigezi, and Acholi. The country also struggles with high rates of stunting and anemia, affecting 29% of pregnant women and 53% of children under five. Non-communicable diseases linked to poor diet and lifestyle contribute to 33% of annual adult mortality.

Although Uganda has made progress in reducing national malnutrition since 2000, stunting remains a concern, affecting approximately 2 million children. Around 10 million Ugandans experience some level of food insecurity, with 2.6 million facing acute levels, particularly in rural areas like Karamoja, West Nile, Acholi, Teso, and Busoga.

High poverty rates, underdeveloped infrastructure, and restrictive cultural norms exacerbate these issues. Despite a reduction in poverty from 37.7% in 2002−2003 to 20.3% in 2019−2020, the limited affordability and accessibility of nutritious food persist, especially for women and youth who lack decision-making power in agriculture due to patriarchal systems.

Our commitment

Uganda Vegan Society is committed to addressing these challenges by promoting plant-based diets as a sustainable solution to malnutrition. The society advocates for the consumption of nutrient-rich, locally sourced plant foods to improve the overall health and well-being of Ugandans. Through education, partnerships, and community programs, the society aims to make plant-based nutrition accessible and appealing to all.

Mission

To improve the health and nutritional status of Ugandans by promoting sustainable, affordable, and nutrient-rich plant-based diets.

Objectives

• Education and Awareness:Increase public knowledge of the benefits of plant-based diets through workshops, seminars, and media campaigns.
• Community Programs: Implement programs in schools, healthcare centers, and communities to encourage the adoption of plant-based diets.
• Collaboration:Work with local farmers, food producers, and health organizations to enhance the availability and affordability of plant-based foods.
• Policy Advocacy:Influence policy to support plant-based nutrition initiatives and integrate them into national health and food security strategies.
• Research and Innovation:Conduct research to assess the impact of plant-based diets on public health and develop innovative strategies for improving nutrition.

Proposed Outcomes

Reduced malnutrition and diet-related diseases; healthier eating habits among children and youth

Adoption of climate-smart and sustainable farming practices; improved soil health; increased agricultural yields.

Enhanced economic status and decision-making power for women and youth; increased access to agricultural land.

Greater food security through sustainable food production and improved post-harvest practices.

Implementation of supportive policies that promote inclusive dietary guidelines and sustainable agricultural practices.

Knowledge dissemination on preparing affordable, nutritious plant-based meals; better livelihood outcomes and gender equality.