Joint Infant and Young Child Nutrition Program and Malnutrition Prevention

Joint Infant and Young Child Nutrition Program in Burkina Faso : Impact Evaluation

Study title: Joint Infant and young children nutrition program in Burkina Faso: Impact evaluation Hypothesis: The fortification of complementary foods associated with a counseling on feeding practices for infants and young children prevents malnutrition in 6-23 months-old children.

Objective: to assess the effectiveness of a promotional care package in preventing malnutrition among children aged 6-23 months.

The 'Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)', in collaboration with Micronutrient Initiative (MI), the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) Antwerp (Belgium), and the Health District of Tougan, will conduct a study to assess the effectiveness of a promotional package in the prevention and management of malnutrition among children aged 6-23 months.

This promotional package includes:

1. A monthly follow-up sessions promoting growth in which detailed advice on feeding practices infant and young child feeding (IYCF) will be given to the mothers of children 6-23 months . These behavioral change informations be developed based on the rapid assessment of practices and foods available in the community and adaptation of the WHO manual.
2. The distribution of micronutrient powders (MNP) (15 micronutrients) to mothers of children 6-23 months of age for home fortification of complementary foods
3. Intensive counseling sessions and cooking demonstrations every two weeks for moderately malnourished children . Cooking demonstrations will include instructions on adding micronutrient powders and oil to meals .

Inclusion Criteria:

• Mothers of 6 to 23 months old children
• Reside in the study area
• Accept to use MNP

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mothers of children aged less than 6 months or more than 23 months.
• Refusal