The Nutrition Smart Communities (NSC) project is a regional initiative implemented in Malawi, Ethiopia, and Sierra Leone with the aim of improving food and nutrition security at household and community levels. In Malawi, the project is being implemented in 45 communities with support from local structures and civil society organizations. CSONA is contributing to the project’s implementation through coordination, knowledge sharing, and strengthening civil society engagement, the project is being implemented in Mangochi district in the T/A’s Chamba and T/A Nankumba.

The project takes a multi-sectoral approach, addressing the interconnected factors that influence nutrition outcomes such as agriculture, WASH, health, education, and livelihoods. It promotes evidence-based, low-cost interventions that empower households to adopt better nutrition, hygiene, and child care practices. CSONA is collaboration with Kusamala and WHH with financial support from BMZ.

At the community level, the project supports the development and implementation of community-led development plans and nutrition-sensitive micro-projects. These include activities like cooking demonstrations, food preservation, home gardening, and awareness campaigns using local theatre and radio.

NSC also focuses on strengthening the linkages between civil society actors and local administrative structures to improve coordination and feedback. Existing platforms such as community-based organizations (CBOs), area development committees (ADCs), and youth groups are engaged throughout the process.