During a discussion held recently (12) Additional Regional Health Officer Dr. Sumudu Thoradeniya shed light on the alarming prevalence of severe acute malnutrition among children in the Gangawatakorale Divisional Secretariat Division of Kandy District.
Dr. Thoradeniya revealed that a distressing twenty-five children in the region are currently grappling with severe acute malnutrition, a condition that demands urgent attention. Additionally, nearly four hundred other children in the Gangawatakorale Divisional Secretariat Division are showing signs of malnutrition and are struggling to attain normal growth.
To address this pressing issue, Dr. Thoradeniya emphasized that concerted efforts are underway to support these children in their journey towards improved health. A program has been initiated to provide highly nutritious foods specifically tailored to the needs of children suffering from severe malnutrition. Furthermore, awareness campaigns targeting parents and elders are being carried out to enhance children’s nutrition.
These revelations came to light during a discussion held as part of the project “Organizing Women for Interaction through Community Participation,” facilitated by the Sri Lanka National Peace Council. The initiative aims to empower local women by enabling them to voice their concerns and provide solutions to community issues. It also seeks to bolster women’s political engagement and establish effective channels for addressing the public’s concerns with government officials.