29/10/2025
MALNUTRITION: GOVT. FLAGS OFF DISTRIBUTION OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENT
The Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA) has commenced the first batch of nutritional distribution of health care commodities across all 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state, marking a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to strengthen child health and nutrition.
The initiative represents the last-mile delivery of Small Quantity Lipid-based Nutrient Supplements (SQLNS) — a preventive nutritional intervention designed for children aged 6 to 23 months. These supplements aim to prevent malnutrition among children during their critical growth and development stages.
While emphasizing that the intervention is preventive and not a treatment for malnutrition, the Director General of PS-DMCMA, Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot explained that preventing malnutrition is far more sustainable and cost-effective than treating it.
“These commodities are completely free of charge and can be accessed at any government-owned health facility across Plateau State,” Pharm. Kim stated.
“We remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his unwavering commitment to improving healthcare delivery and his approval for the procurement and distribution of these vital supplements.”
The DG reaffirmed the agency's commitment to ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the management and distribution of health commodities. According to him, it will continue to collaborate with development partners, local governments, and community health workers to ensure that these supplements reach every eligible child in Plateau State.
To ensure widespread access, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang approved the procurement of 5,392 cartons of SQLNS to be distributed to healthcare facilities across the 17 LGAs. This initiative aligns with the state government’s broader agenda to improve nutritional indices, strengthen primary healthcare systems, and promote the well-being of children and mothers across Plateau State.