Malnutrition is a persistent challenge across Africa, with millions of people, especially children, suffering from hunger and inadequate nutrition.

In The Gambia, this issue is amplified in rural areas, where limited access to food, healthcare, and education traps communities in cycles of poverty and poor health. Affinity Vision is addressing this crisis through impactful initiatives like the Alpha Community Health Centre and Jofi School, offering hope and tangible solutions to combat malnutrition.

The Crisis of Malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa

  • Staggering Numbers: Over 45 million children under five in sub-Saharan Africa suffer from stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition (UNICEF).

  • Food Insecurity: Nearly 282 million people across Africa face hunger daily, with severe repercussions on health and economic development (FAO).

  • Impact on Child Mortality: Malnutrition contributes to 45% of deaths among children under five, making it a leading cause of preventable mortality (WHO).

Malnutrition in The Gambia, West Africa

The Gambia faces significant malnutrition challenges:

  • Child Malnutrition Rates: Over 25% of Gambian children under five suffer from stunted growth, while 10% are acutely malnourished (UNICEF).

  • Food Insecurity: Many rural communities depend on subsistence farming, making them vulnerable to droughts and poor crop yields.

  • Seasonal Hunger: A lack of food preservation methods means families struggle with food shortages during the off-season, leading to wasted produce and nutritional deficits.

Let’s End Hunger Through Improving Communities

“At Affinity Vision, we believe no person should go hungry. Through projects like the Alpha Community Health Centre and Jofi School, we’re not just addressing immediate hunger but also empowering communities with sustainable solutions to combat malnutrition long-term,” says Chris Bialan, CEO of Affinity Vision.

Support Provided for Critical Projects

Chris has personally supported several critical projects, including:

  • Installing a borehole to provide clean water for farming and drinking.

  • Funding food programs at Jofi School to ensure every child has access to a nutritious meal.

Supporting nutrition education initiatives to teach sustainable farming and food preservation.

Creating a Community Centre for Support

Once completed, The Alpha Community Health Centre aims to tackle malnutrition by integrating healthcare, education, and community support:

  • Healthcare Services: The centre will provide screenings for malnutrition and medical treatment for those affected.

  • Nutrition Education: Classes on food preservation and balanced diets will empower families to make the most of their resources.

Farming Initiatives: Plans to establish chicken, fish, and cashew farms will generate income, create jobs, and provide sustainable food sources for the community.

MORE ABOUT ALPHA HEALTH
Pupils at Jofi Modern School eating lunch

Combating Malnutrition through Education

Jofi School recognises that hungry children cannot learn effectively. Through partnerships and dedicated programs, the school is addressing malnutrition:

  • School Meals: In collaboration with local organisations, Jofi School provides meals to ensure students receive the nutrition they need to focus and thrive.

  • Food Science Classes: Students learn essential skills in hygiene, nutrition, and food preservation, equipping them with tools to combat hunger in their communities.
MORE ABOUT JOFI SCHOOL

Ways to Support Affinity Vision’s Fight Against Malnutrition

Affinity Vision offers meaningful ways to make a difference:

  • Sponsor a Child: Ensure children at Jofi School have access to nutritious meals alongside their education.

Join Affinity Vision Supporting Communities in The Gambia

Malnutrition in Africa - and particularly in The Gambia - is a crisis that demands action. Affinity Vision’s mission goes beyond immediate aid; it’s about creating sustainable change through education, healthcare, and community development.

By supporting the Alpha Community Health Centre and Jofi School, donors can help combat hunger and malnutrition, improving health outcomes and building stronger communities.

Your contribution is more than a donation - it’s a step toward a healthier, hunger-free future for The Gambia and beyond. Together, we can make a difference.

ALL SPONSOR PACKAGES