Application of the scaling readiness approach for scaling of nutrition‐sensitive initiatives in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi: A case of orange fleshed sweetpotato value chain

Abstract

AbstractMalnutrition remains a global challenge contributing to 45% of child mortality worldwide. Agri‐nutrition‐sensitive interventions have been judged as cost‐effective in addressing the key underlying determinants of nutrition. There is conclusive evidence of nutritional benefits from agriculture‐related programs such as the orange‐fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) program in addressing vitamin A deficiency which affects an estimated 165 million children under five globally. However, such programs are complex and require a multi‐sectoral approach (agriculture, health, trade, education, and processing) to realize the benefits. Consequently, getting the right partner in various sectors for sustainable implementation is challenging. This study shares experience using the scaling readiness approach in identifying strategic partners to scale up the OFSP value chain sustainably. Scaling Readiness is an effective approach in programming and designing multi‐sectoral nutrition‐sensitive projects to mitigate scaling challenges and selecting strategic partners to overcome bottlenecks. Having the right partners reduces the cost of implementation, allowing the project to collaborate, leverage existing initiatives, reallocate resources, and reorientate some aspects leading to focusing on what works rather than what is available. If well utilized, Scaling Readiness can help programs accelerate the scaling up of nutrition‐sensitive technologies, reducing malnutrition.