Influence of Sociocultural Practices on Food and Nutrition Security in Karamoja Subregion of Uganda

ABSTRACT

The study determined the influence of sociocultural practices on food and nutrition security of children and women in Karamoja subregion, located in northeastern Uganda. Sixteen focus group discussions were conducted among 133 participants. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings indicate that cultural norms, myths, and taboos restrict consumption of animal-sourced foods and some green vegetables by women. Sociocultural practices promoted prelacteal feeding, affecting the implementation of World Health Organization’s recommendations for exclusive breast feeding. In conclusion, sociocultural practices influence food and nutrition security, exposing women and children to the risk of malnutrition and associated consequences.

KEYWORDS:

• Child nutrition
• ethnicity
• exclusive breastfeeding
• maternal nutrition

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the following persons, who contributed in their various capacities:

• Dr. Martina Hennessy of Trinity College Dublin (TCD), for overall coordination as Principle Investigator of NOURISH project;

• Professor Nazarious Mbona of Makerere University, School of Public Health, for country coordination of NOURISH project;

• Prof. J.H Nyeko Pen-Mogi of Gulu University for work as the Principle Investigator, Work Package 2 of NOURISH project;

• Professor Massimo Lopascu and Poonam Saksena for hosting Muggaga Christopher during the write-up of the manuscripts at the National University of Singapore;

• Karamoja district local government officials of Abim, Kaabong, Moroto, and Amudat.

Funding

This research was funded through NOURISH project by Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Irish Aid under the Programme of Strategic Cooperation between Irish Aid and Higher Education and Research Institutes 2007–2011.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded through NOURISH project by Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Irish Aid under the Programme of Strategic Cooperation between Irish Aid and Higher Education and Research Institutes 2007–2011.