Early Childhood Development

Nearly one in three children under five years in Sierra Leone is stunted from chronic malnutrition, and more than 176,000 suffer from acute malnutrition each year. Of these, over 63,000 face a life-threatening form known as severe acute malnutrition, according to a 2022 UNICEF report.

In the face of this alarming reality, ChildFund, working with its local partners such as N’domakeh Federation, is strengthening community-based nutrition interventions. These include educating caregivers on exclusive breastfeeding, supporting the safe preparation of weaning foods, and promoting hygiene practices that help reduce infections in young children. The goal is to equip families with the knowledge and tools they need to improve early childhood nutrition and reduce preventable child deaths.

These broad efforts are taking shape in communities like Isatu’s in Kailahun District, where the impact of malnutrition is felt daily and practical solutions are making a difference. Women are being trained on how to prepare nutritious meals using ingredients they can find locally. 

The sessions focus on teaching mothers how to make safe, balanced weaning foods that meet the needs of growing children. They learn how to mix cereals like rice or corn with legumes such as groundnuts and local vegetables to make meals that are rich in energy, protein, and essential vitamins.

In addition to meal preparation, caregivers are also trained on good hygiene practices like proper handwashing, safe food storage, and keeping cooking utensils clean to help prevent diseases.

Kadie says she is thankful for the guidance she received from health workers. “I am so happy I followed ChildFund’s advice to breastfeed for 6 months. My son is now ready for weaning, and that’s why I came for this training,” she says.

Knowledge for Better Nutrition

ChildFund’s nutrition program supports the health and development of children under five. A key part of the program is helping mothers understand the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, safe weaning practices, and clean food preparation.

In the past year alone, over 740 mothers in Sierra Leone have received this training.

Malnutrition in children is often caused by poor feeding practices, including early introduction of solid foods, low-nutrient meals, and unsafe hygiene. These practices increase the risk of illness and death in young children.

“The training was held in a clean place. The food was prepared safely. That showed me how important it is to be careful. My baby’s life depends on how I care for him,” says Kadie.

Kadie now feels more confident in feeding and caring for her baby. “This training gave me knowledge. I will also share it with other mothers in my community,” she adds.

Weaning is a critical stage in a child’s development. If not done properly, it can lead to malnutrition or infection. Teaching mothers how to make nutritious, age-appropriate food helps improve child health in vulnerable communities.

Isatu Venn, ChildFund Programs and Sponsorship Director, highlights the importance of this initiative: “The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are critical for their growth and development. Good nutrition during this period lays the foundation for a healthy future. A mother’s care and attention come first in ensuring her baby’s well-being. Through this program, we are equipping mothers with the knowledge and skills to prepare safe, nutritious foods that support children’s health and help prevent malnutrition.”