Why maternal and child nutrition is a critical component of the Post-2015 Development Agenda
All children have the right to optimal nutrition to survive, grow and develop. Optimal nutrition requires that children have access to: (1) appropriate, affordable, diverse and nutrient-rich food; (2) appropriate maternal and child care practices; and (3) adequate health services and a healthy environment including safe water, sanitation and good hygiene.1
The interdependence between these issues cannot be overstated – while addressing malnutrition requires contributions from many sectors, improving child nutrition brings sustainable dividends to other sectors too. Wellnourished children are healthier, more resistant to disease, more attentive and perform better at school. Investment must start early in life to realize these dividends. Improving maternal and child nutrition gives children the best possible start in life, enabling them to reach their full potential.1
1. United Nations Children’s Fund, ‘Improving Child Nutrition: The achievable imperative for global progress’ UNICEF, 2013.