Adopting a gender transformative approach (GTA) to increase dietary diversity and decision-making of women: Evidence form a nutrition-sensitive intervention in Bangladesh

Abstract

Given the high levels of malnutrition in Bangladesh and the importance of fish in providing micronutrients, we sought to understand the dietary diversity, level of nutrition knowledge, awareness, and attitude towards fish consumption among fisheries communities in Cox’s Bazar area. the study aims to assess the effects of gender transformative approaches (Recognizing the importance of targeting both husbands (men) and wives (women), as well as other influential members within the households to improve the food, and nutrition, and build skills in communication and problem-solving to discuss nutrition and gender-related problems)that were implemented in the technical training portfolio for agriculture, aquaculture, nutrition, and market development interventions targeting female beneficiaries and their husbands to challenge gendered barriers related to agriculture, health, and nutrition behaviors. Data were collected using mixed methods; we carried out a quantitative survey (structured questionnaires) from 322 artisanal fisher households that were project beneficiaries covering Teknaf, Ukhiya, Cox's Bazar Sadar, and Maheshkhali Upazilas of Cox's Bazar district. Furthermore, we collected qualitative datasets (semi-structured interviews), from a total of 16 focus group discussions and 16 key informant interviews with women beneficiaries have been conducted.