How can agroecology contribute to combat multiple forms of malnutrition of economically vulnerable households?

This study explores the links between agroecological practices, improved food systems governance, marketing, and consumer behaviours.
It focuses on economically and nutritionally vulnerable women in urban markets of low-income neighbourhoods in Dakar, Senegal, who face multiple forms of malnutrition, including overweight and obesity.
It aims to assess how agroecology approaches - which is increasingly recognised as an important lever to transform agri-food systems towards sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change - have the ability improve the diversity, affordability and access to healthy foods.
The findings will provide actionable insights for development agencies and governments to design more equitable and sustainable food systems.

The Nutrition Research Facility (NRF) conducted a series of consultations with decision-makers in EU Member States, EU partner countries, within Delegations of the EU in partner countries and within the European Commission, in order to identify their current concerns in relation to nutrition issues in development contexts. This question arose from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, responsible for the international cooperation strategy in nutrition.

This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods in three interconnected components. First, a market survey includes semi-structured interviews with key actors in two agroecological food chains in Senegal and a typology of marketing channels for agroecological fruits and vegetables. Second, a consumer study uses quantitative survey, semi-structured interviews and focus groups to profile consumers of agroecological products, examining their motivations in purchasing agroecological products, their dietary patterns and the barriers faced by low-income consumers in accessing these foods. Finally, a conceptual framework synthesises findings from the market and consumer studies, mapping pathways through which agroecological interventions can improve nutrition outcomes for vulnerable urban populations.

By emphasising agroecology as a systemic approach to tackle malnutrition and food insecurity, this study supports the development of inclusive food systems, contributing to healthier populations and more resilient local economies.

Main contact: Rachel Bezner Kerr

Organisation: Cornell University

Email address: rbeznerkerr@cornell.edu

Laboratoire de Recherche sur les Transformation Économiques et Sociales - LARTES-IFAN - Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar