As Nepal grapples with a growing child malnutrition crisis, the UK should be paying close attention. The alarmingly high rates of wasting and underweight children in the country are a stark reminder of the consequences of aid cuts – specifically those initiated by the US last year.
The recent government-led survey, which screened over one million children under five, paints a damning picture. Pooja Pandey Rana, a senior Nepalese nutrition expert, expressed deep concern that the progress made in reducing child mortality over the past two decades is at risk of being reversed. In fact, a malnourished child is 12 times more likely to die compared to one who is well-nourished.
The survey revealed that in Madhesh province, near the Indian border, wasting rates reached as high as 12.3% and 24.2% of children were underweight for their age. Nationally, 7.8% of children suffered from wasting, with 1.6% experiencing severe wasting, and 17.4% being underweight.
Ms Pandey Rana noted that while the screening only covered approximately half of eligible children, rates in more remote areas could be even higher. The aid cuts have also led to a breakdown in community outreach programmes, where health workers previously identified and referred malnourished children for treatment – but are no longer funded.
Rising food prices have further exacerbated the situation. Eggs, a highly recommended nutritious food, now cost as much as a kilogram of rice, forcing families to make impossible choices. Unicef in Nepal has confirmed that current supplies are insufficient to meet demand, with only 35% of affected children receiving necessary care.
As the UK Government continues to provide development assistance to Nepal – focusing on areas such as health, education and economic development – it is essential they consider the impact of global events like this on their aid efforts. The situation in Nepal serves as a stark reminder that aid cuts can have far-reaching consequences for vulnerable populations.
A spokesperson for the FCDO was approached for comment but declined to provide specific details on the UK's response, citing ongoing discussions with Nepalese authorities. However, it is clear that global events like this require international cooperation and consideration – and the UK must be prepared to play its part.