Viet Nam

Background: The MNI embarked upon a comprehensive and systematic approach for identifying the barriers and opportunities and potential strategies of mainstreaming nutrition in Viet Nam.   In Viet Nam, MNI assuming a direct role, in collaboration of the local partner, Save the Children USA, helps in capacity enhancing of the stakeholders to plan and devise context sensitive, integrated actions for nutrition. Very positive and collaborative relationship has been developed with the MOH and National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), INGOs and development partners. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted with the stakeholders to gauge the socio-political context of nutrition, and identify the nutrition priorities, opportunities and challenges. The KIIs were used to inform and formulate the provincial level planning model that operates in Viet Nam. The provincial nutrition planning has taken place in the province of Quang Tri. The provincial model of nutrition planning is the part of the national plan for stunting reduction.
 
Achievement:

1. A major milestone for the MNI team has been the formation of the Nutrition Partnership Group (in January 2007) to galvanize the development community and to coordinate the nutrition programs funded by international donors and INGOs. The Nutrition Partnership Group (NPG) is focusing on nutrition strategies and implementation in Viet Nam, and may help the Government coordinate among its ministries, particularly at the local and provincial levels.
2. National advocacy: MNI efforts in national advocacy and engagement succeeded to support NIN in developing the Lancet Series launch on Maternal and Child under nutrition (17th of January 2008) and the 35th SCN sessions (3-7 of March 2008) in Hanoi. These two highly visible events were identified as important events with engagement of high ranking government officials at ministry levels, academics and practitioners, as well as donors and the international community in Vietnam and the regions. Their involvement is conducive to garner collective commitment, efforts and resources for intensified actions on nutrition.
3. Using the MNI mapping tool, the MNI team has systematically identified all the nutrition related activities by funding source, coverage, and outcome indicators in Viet Nam.
4. The MNI technical guidance enabled the provincial (Quang Tri) stakeholders working on a systematic approach to develop a context sensitive provincial nutrition plan for 2009. This capacity enhancing approach included, finalization of protocol and tools for IYCF (Infant and Young Child Feeding) assessment, training to local partners on rapid assessment of IYCF, IYCF assessment conducted by trained local partners, and a planning workshop. The workshop recommended for a holistic nutrition program for 2009, linked with poverty reduction, agriculture, health, and education.
5. MNI supported the NIN to formulate the draft of the PAARS (Plan of Action for Accelerated Reduction of Stunting) with participation of representatives from WHO, UNICEF, ADB and related professionals. The Quangtri model of nutrition planning shall be applied in the national stunting reduction plan.
6. MNI assistance enables documentation of the model for Breastfeeding Support Group in Huang Hoa and Darkong district. MNI supported development of the Center for Building Capacity of Community on Maternal and Child Health Care in Huang Hoa district. MNI supported the Dakrong district to develop a district plan for nutrition integrated in socio-economic development plan of the district.