The government has launched a Unicef-backed egg powder programme in Tooro to fight child stunting, aiming to reach 60,000 children initially and expand nationwide, in a move officials say could transform early childhood nutrition across the country.
In a bold step to address the high rates of child stunting in the Tooro region, the Ministry of Health, with support from Unicef, has rolled out the Egg Powder Initiative for Children (EPIC).
The programme targets children aged 6 to 18 months and aims to reduce stunting by up to 47% through a daily serving of powdered eggs.
The launch event, held on Wednesday at Club Afreka in Kamwenge District, brought together government officials, health experts, and local leaders from across Tooro.
With a stunting rate of 40%—twice the national average—Tooro has been prioritised as the first beneficiary region.
The initial phase of EPIC will reach 60,000 children in Kamwenge, Kitagwenda, Kabarole, Ntoroko, and Kyenjojo districts. National expansion plans target over six million children, with full rollout projected to cost more than $13 million.
Dr Daniel Kyabayinze, speaking on behalf of the Director of Health Services (Public Health), described EPIC as a comprehensive public health strategy, not just a nutritional supplement scheme.
“This is not just a food supplement programme,” he said.
“It is a critical health intervention that demands trained personnel, empowered communities, and the full commitment of local leaders to succeed.”
He called on leaders at all levels to mobilise communities and spread awareness about the benefits of the programme.
“If we all rally behind EPIC, we can drastically reduce stunting and give our children the healthy start they deserve,” he added.
Kamwenge District Health Officer Dr William Mucunguzi described the programme as both urgent and necessary for the region.
“Stunting in Kamwenge is a serious concern. This initiative is not only timely but essential. We are already conducting training sessions for Village Health Teams and other frontline workers to ensure the programme is implemented effectively,” he said.
Fred Mbonigaba, Secretary for Social Services and representative of the LCV Chairperson, underscored the impact of household food decisions on child nutrition.
“Our communities must stop selling nutritious food like eggs and milk just to buy unhealthy substitutes. This behaviour is costing our children their future,” he said.
Resident District Commissioner Africano Aharikundira also appealed to parents, linking the issue of stunting to lapses in caregiving.
“Parents need to step up. Poor parenting practices are part of why our children are suffering. EPIC is here to help, but we need parents to fully embrace and support it,” he said.
If successful, EPIC could serve as a model for the rest of the country in combating child malnutrition.
The Ministry of Health hopes the initiative will not only improve nutrition but also strengthen community health systems and parenting practices, setting a new standard for early childhood care in Uganda.