Childhood malnutriiton can be addressed by their communities via an initiative in Somalia developed by the “Maternal, Infant, Young Child and Adolescent Nutrition (MIYCAN) working group and fostered by UNICEF and the federal department of health of Somalia in the Horn of Africa.
As of early 2026, the malnutrition has grown in Somalia, driven by a combination of persistent conflict, high food prices, and climate-related shocks like the failure of recent rainy seasons. In the current cycle (extending through July 2026), an estimated 1.85 million children are estimated to be suffering from acute malnutrition, a 12% increase compared to previous seasons. Of these, an estimated 425,000 severely wasted.
Potentially a model for other countries, MIYCAN moves beyond treating sick children at clinics to preventing malnutrition via Community Health Workers. It integrates nutrition with early childhood development, play, and disability-inclusive care.
Rolled out in January 2026 this new framework includes “a standardised five‑day training curriculum that strengthens pre‑service and in‑service capacity. The framework reinforces the role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) as frontline nutrition counsellors, supported by 40 newly developed, culturally appropriate counselling cards designed to enhance caregiver engagement and promote positive behaviour change at both household and community levels.”
It represents Somalia’s first national guidance for feeding infants and young children with physical or neurological difficulties, ensuring “no child is left behind.”
It occurs as UNICEF and its partners increase their use of SQ-LNS (Small Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements) and Mother-Infant MUAC Tape.
