Since the first case of Covid-19 was recorded in Somalia, there have been online training for over 100 nutrition non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in the country.

Development Diaries gathered that the aim was to save lives, protect children, and ensure they continue to safely access the services they need to grow and develop.

The nutrition team of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Somalia led a two-week series of online training and repeat training with the support of the health section, the nutrition cluster, the World Food Programme, and the health ministry.

It was learnt that the training covered three thematic areas: malnutrition, infant, and young child feeding, and key messages for community health workers.

It was gathered that participants shared concerns about implementing the physical distancing in the context of Somalia, especially in over-crowded environments such as camps of internally displaced persons.

In Somalia, as in other countries, myths and rumours travel faster than facts. Common myths reported in the community, according to respondents, included: ‘this is not an African disease’, ‘it cannot survive in the hot climate’, and ‘it is just the flu and not something to be taken seriously’.

It was observed that the early initiation of the training played an integral part in preparing nutrition workers across the country to continue to provide life-saving services while staying safe.

Source: CNBC Africa

Photo source: USAID in Africa