Nutrition

At Ileni Agrosolutions & Consultancy CC, our Nutrition Division is dedicated to unlocking the power of nutrition to strengthen Namibia’s health, food systems, and development agenda. Led by a registered Nutritionist and a qualified Chef, we deliver evidence-based solutions that combat malnutrition and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), empowering communities for a healthier, more resilient future.

What is Nutrition?

Malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in nutrient intake, including undernutrition (stunting, wasting, micronutrient deficiencies), overweight, and obesity. In Namibia, 24% of children under five are stunted, 6% face wasting, 13% are underweight, and 25.2% of women of reproductive age suffer from anaemia. With 41% of the population projected to face acute food insecurity by March 2025 (IPC 2024), malnutrition threatens human potential and national development.

Nutrition is the science of how nutrients and substances in food support growth, health, and well-being by ensuring the body receives essential macronutrients and micronutrients for optimal function.

Harsh Reality of Malnutrition in Namibia

Impact on Namibia

NCDs are chronic, non-infectious diseases like cardiovascular issues, diabetes, cancers, and respiratory conditions, driven by factors such as poor diet and inactivity. In Namibia, NCDs cause over 50% of deaths, with rising obesity and high blood pressure straining healthcare systems. Skin cancer and HIV-related conditions further complicate the health landscape, underscoring the need for preventive nutrition strategies.

Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs)

Malnutrition and NCDs burden Namibia’s government with high healthcare costs and lost productivity, reducing GDP by up to 11% in similar economies. The N$1.8 billion food import bill and increasing treatment demands divert resources from critical programs, challenging Vision 2030’s goals for a prosperous, healthy society.

Our Focus Areas

1. Integrating Nutrition, Driving Development: Embedding nutrition in agriculture, health, and education for sustainable impact.

2. Nutrition at the Core: Designing nutrition-specific and sensitive interventions across sectors.

3. Evidence-Based Impact: Using data and research to guide decisions and track progress.

4. Strengthening Systems: Building policies and capacity for resilient food security.

5. Sustainable Development: Aligning with Vision 2030 and UN SDGs.