By Sallieu S, Kanu
Sierra Leone – January 29, 2026: UNICEF and the Irish Embassy in Sierra Leone have launched a joint UN Nutrition Programme (2025–2029) aimed at building climate change resilience, strengthening food and nutrition security, and tackling malnutrition. The programme will be implemented in four districts: Bombali, Kailahun, Kenema, and Moyamba.
Speaking at the launch, UNICEF Representative in Sierra Leone and Chair of UN Nutrition, Rudolf Schwenk, underscored the urgency of addressing malnutrition, which remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among children under five. “While the country has made progress, 26% of children are still stunted and 5.2% are underweight, placing national efforts off-track to meet the global 2030 nutrition targets,” he said.
Schwenk explained that the programme brings together government and UN agencies to deliver a coordinated, multi-sectoral response. It will strengthen climate resilience systems, improve food and nutrition security, and support national commitments under the Feed Salone priority, the Mid-Term National Development Plan, and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. He noted that the initiative contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 13, and will be implemented through existing government systems with strong community-level engagement to ensure ownership and sustainability.
Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Patrick McManus, expressed delight at Ireland’s partnership in the programme. “UN Nutrition strengthens climate change resilience and food systems in Sierra Leone. This programme is to make sure that pregnant women give birth to healthy babies,” he said, emphasizing its importance for maternal and child health.
Minister of State in the Office of the Vice President, Manty Tarawally, thanked the Government of Ireland, UNICEF, and other UN agencies for their support. She highlighted that the programme aligns with Sierra Leone’s Mid-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) and supports the government’s Feed Salone priority. “The programme is unique as it brings the UN family and the Government of Sierra Leone to work together. It will address malnutrition, and we expect good results,” she said.
The governance structure of the Joint Programme includes a Steering Committee with oversight responsibility for overall management and coordination. The committee will serve as the highest decision-making body, providing strategic guidance, fiduciary oversight, and facilitating collaboration between UN agencies, the Government of Sierra Leone, and donors. It will review and approve programme documents, results, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and annual reports, while ensuring accountability and follow-up on recommendations.
The launch marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s efforts to combat malnutrition and strengthen resilience against climate change, with a focus on improving the health and wellbeing of children and families in vulnerable communities.