The Health and Lifestyle Awareness Development Initiative (HLADI) proudly participated in a three-day stakeholder workshop dedicated to developing a comprehensive Knowledge Management Strategy for Nutrition in Nigeria’s Health Sector. Organized by the Nutrition Department of the Federal Ministry of Health, the workshop convened government officials, health practitioners, technical partners, and civil society organizations to strengthen national nutrition systems through improved knowledge sharing and coordinated information management.
HLADI’s participation reflected the organization’s growing recognition as a key stakeholder in public health and nutrition, as well as its commitment to supporting evidence-based solutions that address malnutrition challenges across Nigeria.
Strengthening Nutrition Through Knowledge Management
The workshop provided a critical platform to discuss how effective knowledge management can transform nutrition programming. With malnutrition remaining a significant public health concern across Nigeria, stakeholders emphasized the need for well-structured systems that ensure accurate information flows seamlessly from national to community levels.
The discussions focused on the importance of:
- Ensuring timely access to reliable nutrition information
- Strengthening institutional capacity to manage and share knowledge
- Promoting evidence-based decision-making among policymakers and practitioners
- Enhancing coordination among nutrition actors across various sectors
HLADI’s Presentation: “Knowledge is Power”
HLADI was honored to deliver a presentation titled “Knowledge is Power,” which highlighted the central role of knowledge management in strengthening nutrition outcomes. Key messages from the presentation included:
1. The Role of Knowledge Management
HLADI emphasized that a strong knowledge management system enhances communication, collaboration, and coordination across the nutrition ecosystem. When information is accessible and well-organized, stakeholders can respond more effectively to nutrition challenges.
2. Building Capacity Through Training
HLADI highlighted the need for continuous training for health workers and community-level actors. Equipping them with knowledge management skills promotes consistency, accuracy, and efficiency in nutrition service delivery.
3. Leveraging Technology
The presentation underscored the potential of digital platforms, knowledge hubs, and data systems in improving how nutrition information is collected, stored, analyzed, and disseminated. HLADI advocated for integrating innovative IT solutions into national and subnational nutrition programs.
4. Data-Driven Decision-Making
HLADI stressed the importance of collecting and analyzing data to inform policies and programs. Reliable data helps identify trends, allocate resources more effectively, and tailor interventions to meet the needs of different population groups.
The presentation was widely appreciated for its clarity, relevance, and practical recommendations.
Collaborative Discussions and Stakeholder Engagement
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in rich, collaborative discussions on the current gaps and opportunities within Nigeria’s nutrition knowledge management landscape. Stakeholders shared:
- Best practices from successful nutrition programs
- Challenges in information flow and documentation
- Strategies for institutionalizing a national knowledge management framework
The workshop fostered a spirit of partnership and collective responsibility, reinforcing the importance of working together to achieve national nutrition goals.
HLADI’s Ongoing Commitment
HLADI remains deeply committed to advancing public health and nutrition by strengthening knowledge management practices. The organization will continue to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to:
- Support the rollout of the Knowledge Management Strategy
- Promote the use of digital tools and platforms
- Enhance the capacity of state and community-level actors
- Advocate for evidence-based nutrition interventions
By transforming knowledge into action, HLADI aims to contribute meaningfully to reducing malnutrition and improving the health and well-being of Nigerians—especially the most vulnerable.
Conclusion
HLADI’s participation in the three-day Knowledge Management Strategy workshop reaffirmed its position as a trusted partner in Nigeria’s nutrition landscape. By sharing insights, expertise, and innovative ideas, HLADI continues to advance national efforts to build a healthier, more informed, and empowered population.
Together with government and development partners, HLADI remains dedicated to creating a future where every Nigerian has access to the information, resources, and support needed for optimal nutrition and better health.