Workshop to Strengthen National Nutrition Data Collection Underway in Sierra Leone
Daniel Amara The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI), commenced a four-day training workshop on Monday aimed at strengthening the National Food Consumption and Micronutrient Survey (NFCMS).
The workshop, held at the Ministry’s conference room in the Youyi Building, is being conducted in partnership with the Nutrition Directorate of the Ministry of Health.
The training focuses on Portion Size Estimation Methods (PSEM), a technical tool designed to improve the reliability of dietary intake data. According to organizers, the sessions are intended to address historical data gaps that have made it difficult to accurately assess the nutritional status of the population.
Technical personnel and key stakeholders involved in nutrition data collection, analysis, and reporting are attending the sessions.
Officials stated that the data gathered through these improved methods will be used to support evidence-based decision-making, helping the government formulate more effective policies regarding food security and public health interventions in Sierra Leone.