Consuming an egg a day from six months is key in reducing stunting among children. One way of ensuring this is by using egg powder. As a way of preparing the target audiences for the introduction and consumption of the egg powder, UNICEF contracted S4P Group to utilize HVC processes and design interventions around promotion of uptake and consumption of the egg powder among priority audience members. As a result, co-creation sessions were conducted in Kamwenge district among care givers of children 6 – 24 months, grandmothers, men, health workers and VHTs.

The co-creation sessions revealed a strong awareness of the importance of nutritious foods like eggs, but barriers such as affordability, access, and preparation knowledge prevent regular egg consumption​. Introducing the egg powder would address the barriers and enhance complementary feeding practices for children aged 6 – 24 months.

The findings further revealed that for the egg powder to be embraced and incorporated into the children’s diets, there will be need for comprehensive SBC activities that will drive the demand and uptake of the egg powder and ensure sustainability after the rollout of the proposed activities.

Several recommendations were proposed by the target audiences including:

• Engage health workers and VHTs since the community trusts them.
• Mobilize communities through the VHTs and LC system.
• Leverage Mother Care Groups and savings groups to promote uptake of egg powder
• Develop and disseminate a child friendly reminder calendar that drives routine.
• Promote egg powder through mass media, print and community mobilization.

The egg powder campaign will be launched in May 2025, and the recommendations from the HCD sessions will be very instrumental in ensuring its success.