A gender assessment of Malawi's National Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan 2007–2012

Abstract

Nutrition policies tend to concentrate on women, overlooking the important role men can play as allies in achieving positive nutrition outcomes. This article applies an integrated framework for gender analysis to assess the extent to which Malawi's National Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan (2007–2012) is gender responsive. The study found that the Policy and Strategic Plan were not gender responsive and did not adequately integrate gender considerations. The authors propose the promotion of a conducive environment for men's participation in maternal and child health by applying a more gender‐responsive approach to nutrition policy. The findings could assist developing countries seeking to accelerate progress in reducing undernutrition to meet national, continental and international commitments on gender equality, nutrition and development.