In many hard-to-reach communities across the Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region, malnutrition remains a silent threat—gradually weakening children until it becomes life-threatening. At the forefront of efforts to reverse this trend is Nancy Dogoe, a nutritionist at the Nkwanta South Municipal Government Hospital, whose outreach programs are bringing renewed hope to families.
Beyond her hospital duties, Dogoe runs a community outreach program, educating parents on proper feeding practices, early medical care, and malnutrition prevention.
The prevalence of malnutrition among children aged 1 to 5 in the municipality is alarmingly high. A 2019 health facility-based study indicated stunting at 12.5% and wasting at 27.5%, significantly higher than the national averages of 17.5% and 6.8%, respectively. Factors contributing to malnutrition include short birth intervals, incomplete vaccination, parental unemployment, non-exclusive breastfeeding, and recurrent diarrhea.
In January 2026, the Nkwanta South Municipal Hospital launched its community nutritional outreach program. Through home visits, counselling, and continuous monitoring, Dogoe helps families take practical steps to protect children from the long-term effects of poor nutrition, including stunted growth and weakened immunity.
Among the many success stories is Farouk, a 13-year-old boy who had deteriorated to a “skeletal” state. His mother, Christiana Adwoa Bronya, a single parent, had struggled to manage his condition and was told it was spiritual. Through Dogoe’s guidance—offering nutrition education, feeding advice, and support with supplements—Farouk gradually regained his strength. Today, he is recovering and dreams of becoming a military officer.
A similar story unfolded in Barabo, where Mborla Bindupun, 13, suffered severe malnutrition after a prolonged illness linked to typhoid perforation. Dogoe provided nutrition management during and after her hospital stay. Mborla is now recovering and aspires to become a nurse. Her father, Kofi Kpebu, praised the hospital, the Church of Pentecost, and contributors who supported her recovery, while cautioning parents against delaying medical care in favor of spiritual explanations.
Speaking to Adom News, Nancy Dogoe highlighted that rising malnutrition in Nkwanta South is partly linked to recent unrest, which disrupted livelihoods, food security, and access to healthcare. She stressed that education is a long-term solution, noting that parents who understand malnutrition’s signs and prevention are better equipped to act early.
Dr. Prince Yeboah, clinical coordinator for the hospital, commended Dogoe and her team for their dedication, urging the government and international organizations to support facilities with fortified foods and other resources to reduce malnutrition and stunting.
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