The Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Community-Based Nutrition Interventions for Enhancing Nutritional Outcomes among Children Under six Years in Beatrice, Rural Zimbabwe

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of community-based programmes aimed at improving the nutritional status of children under the age of six in Beatrice, Zimbabwe. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and the Health Belief Model, this research sought to identify interventions that address malnutrition in a sustainable and participatory manner.

Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from a cross-sectional survey of 50 households with qualitative insights obtained from interviews and focus-group discussions with caregivers and community health workers. This approach enabled a holistic understanding of the scope, impact, and sustainability of different nutritional interventions.

Results: The findings indicated a significant prevalence of malnutrition within the study area, with 24% of the children stunted, 18% underweight, and 14% wasted. Community-based interventions such as growth monitoring, household garden support, and nutrition education have emerged as the most cost-effective and sustainable measures. These programmes were found to be affordable, contextually relevant, and empowering for caregivers. Conversely, food supplementation initiatives were perceived as short-term solutions with limited long-term impacts on food security. The outcomes align with theoretical perspectives recognising the multi-level determinants of child nutrition and highlight the value of participatory strategies that foster local ownership and utilise community knowledge.

Conclusion: This study underscores the need for sustainable community-led interventions to combat malnutrition among vulnerable children in rural Zimbabwe. Scaling up participatory approaches that address systemic food insecurity and bridge nutritional knowledge gaps is recommended to achieve lasting improvements in child-health outcomes.