USAID Collaborates with Chioma Akpotha on Malnutrition Awareness Film
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has partnered with Nollywood star Chioma Akpotha on a new film project designed to tackle the issue of malnutrition in Nigeria. The initiative, announced on Tuesday, revolves around the film Beta Food, Beta Life, which aims to promote healthier dietary habits among Nigerian families and support maternal and child nutrition.
The project was unveiled during a private screening at EbonyLife Cinema in Victoria Island, Lagos. USAID highlighted the severity of malnutrition in Nigeria, revealing that over 3.6 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition annually, with the condition contributing to 50% of deaths among children under five. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for public education and behavior change around nutrition.
USAID’s Advancing Nutrition Activity, a key partner in the project, is a $35 million initiative focused on improving nutrition services and providing vital interventions, particularly during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life. The film aims to raise awareness of these alarming statistics and inspire positive shifts in dietary practices nationwide.
Chioma Akpotha, who serves as USAID’s Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition, is using her celebrity influence and storytelling skills to raise awareness about malnutrition. Speaking at the screening, Akpotha shared her connection to the cause, noting the impact that proper nutrition has on children’s health. She explained, “As a mother and storyteller, I understand the profound impact that nutrition has on the health and future of our children.”
Through Beta Food, Beta Life, Akpotha hopes to spark conversations and encourage families to make healthier choices, despite the challenges they may face. The partnership with USAID, she added, enables her to amplify this message and reach communities across Nigeria, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed for better nutrition.
Foyeke Oyedokun, a USAID Health, Population, and Nutrition Specialist, emphasized the power of creativity in addressing public health issues. “Chioma’s ability to connect with audiences and share impactful stories brings a unique energy to our mission of improving nutrition in Nigeria,” she said. Together, USAID and Akpotha aim to ensure that every child in Nigeria has the opportunity to lead a healthier, brighter future.