In Northern Nigeria, malnutrition is deeply tied to poverty. When families face financial hardship, their food options become restricted, leaving women and children the most vulnerable. Low-income limits access to nutritious food, healthcare, and essential maternal services, leading to severe malnutrition, poor pregnancy outcomes, and child developmental issues. In Northern Nigeria over 18 million women of reproductive age suffer from anemia, increasing the risk of maternal mortality. Malnutrition is a major cause of under-five death and many children suffer from acute and chronic malnutrition which contributes to nearly 50% of child deaths, with over 2 million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition annually. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need to address income disparities, improve access to nutrition, and empower women with economic opportunities.
In an effort to improve livelihoods, enhance nutrition, and expand business knowledge among women, Chananhill introduced the WIN-WIN project – Women’s Improved Nutrition for Wellness and Income in Northern Nigeria. This initiative empowers women by equipping them with the skills to improve nutrition while generating self-sustaining income streams. The project focuses on poultry farming and the cultivation of bio-fortified orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP), creating dual benefits for both nutrition and financial independence. Rich in vitamin A, OFSP helps prevent blindness, stunted growth, and immune deficiencies. Women are trained in organic, climate-smart farming techniques, utilizing poultry manure as fertilizer to boost crop yields naturally. Additionally, surplus potatoes are sold in local markets, providing a reliable source of income and enabling women to take control of their financial future.
With the WIN-WIN project, ChananHill aims to expand women’s empowerment by promoting agribusiness practices while improving nutritional standards for families and communities. By strengthening women’s economic power, we can reduce malnutrition, enhance maternal health, and secure a healthier future for the next generation in Northern Nigeria. Currently in its pilot phase, the project has shown promising results and we are eager to see how its impact will shape these key outcomes.
Do you feel a strong commitment towards empowering Nigerian women as well as enhancing their food security status? Partner with us! Our joint efforts will establish additional opportunities for women to grow prosperously and achieve superior food security and economic durability.