Booklet on nutrition and gender awareness for women in marine and coastal artisanal fishing communities

Abstract

A key initiative of ECOFISH II project is formation of Women Income and Nutrition Group (WING) engaging women members of the targeted artisanal fishing households. WING members undergo capacity building initiatives through training and Business Literacy School (BLS) to involve in nutrition-sensitive alternative income generating activities for example small livestock (goat, chicken, duck) farming and homestead horticulture. Specifically designed for WING members, the BLS includes dedicated nutrition education sessions facilitated by a flipchart aligned with the government's National Nutrition Services (NNS). Additionally, a booklet on nutrition and gender awareness has been developed with thematic pictures to make these topics more understandable and memorable for WING members. The booklet includes key messages on critical aspects of nutrition, such as dietary diversity, optimal nutrition practices during the critical 1,000 days window, including maternal and child nutrition, adolescent nutrition, promotion of hygiene, sanitation, and safe drinking water, family planning, and prevention of early marriage. Furthermore, gender awareness has been incorporated as an integral part of the BLS. The booklet serves as a valuable supporting tool that will significantly enhance the knowledge and behavior of WING members on nutrition and gender, specifically within the unique context of coastal artisanal fishing communities. By doing so, it contributes to the overall well-being and resilience of these communities. This booklet is also useful for development practitioners aiming to improve the livelihood resilience of artisanal fishing households.