Gambiaj.com – (BAKAU, The Gambia) – The Africa Catalyzing Action for Nutrition (AfriCAN) and the Gambia Africa Nutrition Agency (NaNA) recently organized a seminar for African youth groups and selected African journalists, igniting a wave of enthusiasm and commitment towards improved nutritional practices across the continent.
Held under the theme “Education: Building Nutrition Literate Communities – Good Nutrition Starts with Me Now,” the seminar attracted a diverse crowd of young leaders and four African professionals, all united by a common goal: to foster a deeper understanding of nutrition and propagate healthy dietary habits within their communities.
The initiative underscores the crucial role of education in building a well-informed society that can make healthier food choices, ultimately leading to better overall health outcomes.
Throughout the seminar, participants engaged in interactive sessions that covered various aspects of nutrition literacy. Experts in the field provided insights into the importance of balanced diets, the long-term benefits of good nutrition, and the socioeconomic impacts of malnutrition. These sessions were designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate for and implement nutritional best practices within their local contexts.
One of the highlights of the seminar was a series of workshops where youth representatives and journalists collaborated to develop actionable plans for promoting nutrition literacy.
Dr Gloria Folson, a nutritionist with the University of Ghana, called upon the youth of Africa to embrace healthy eating habits.
Speaking to youth groups and a group of African journalists in the Dr Isatou Jallow Hall, Dr Folson emphasised the critical importance of good nutrition for the health and well-being of future generations. “Our dietary choices today will shape the health landscape of tomorrow,” she stated. “It’s imperative that the youth understand the long-term implications of their eating habits and take proactive steps to ensure a healthier future for themselves and their communities.”
Participants expressed their excitement and optimism about the initiative. “This seminar has been a revelation. It’s empowering to see how education can transform our approach to nutrition. I’m eager to take what I’ve learned back to my community and start making a difference,” said a youth leader from Ghana.
Journalists who participated also acknowledged the pivotal role they play in disseminating nutritional information. “As a journalist, I have the power to influence public opinion. This seminar has given me the knowledge and motivation to highlight the importance of good nutrition in my reporting. I believe this can drive real change,” remarked a reporter from The Gambia.
AfriCAN’s initiative, championed by the youth, aims to create a ripple effect where informed individuals can educate others, thereby creating nutrition-literate communities. The ultimate goal is to instill healthy eating habits that start with the individual but extend to families, schools, and entire communities, ensuring a healthier future for Africa.
The seminar concluded with a resounding commitment from all participants to champion the cause of nutrition literacy. As the delegates returned to their respective countries, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of knowledge to inspire and educate their peers.
AfriCAN’s focus on education as a tool for improving nutrition is a timely and essential effort. With the enthusiasm and dedication of the youth and the media, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact on the nutritional well-being of African communities, proving that indeed, “Good Nutrition Starts with Me Now.”
