Stakeholder mapping in Rwanda's Nutrition and Food Systems
Project Abstract
Given the complexity of the actors operating and delivering on nutrition outcomes, and engaging and participating in the government decision-making processes related to Food Systems, using the NetMap methodology, an analytical mapping of the national-level actors involved in nutrition and food system in Rwanda was undertaken. This has been complemented by an extensive database of nutrition and food system stakeholders active in 16 ouf of Rwanda's 30 districts.
In conclusion, our findings highlight the complexities, gaps and opportunities within Rwanda's nutrition and food system. There is significant political will and strong leadership from central actors that can be further leveraged to reinforce the response to address malnutrition. The findings also highlight a significant number of actors involved in the food system, including the private sector that could benefit from more structured coordination and clarity of roles and responsibilities in order to be effective. A unified action plan, supported by effective monitoring mechanisms, would further provide the necessary structure to align efforts and optimize resources. Still, we highlight that Rwanda is well positioned to progress toward its ambitious nutrition goals, contributing to healthier and more resilient communities, with better nourished and highly performing school students, a productive future workforce, and a new generation of food system champions.
