Implementation of Stunting Prevention Policy in Noelbaki Village, Kupang Regency: A Qualitative Study

Stunting is a condition in which children do not grow normally. This condition is measured by the weight-for-age (WFA) or height-for-age (HFA) index, with a Z-score below the threshold of -2 to -3 SD for moderate stunting and below -3 SD for severe stunting. As of 2023, 27.4% of toddlers in Noelbaki Village still experienced stunting. This study aims to examine how stunting prevention policies are implemented in Noelbaki Village, Kupang Regency. This study adopted a descriptive qualitative approach and used observation, documentation, and in-depth interviews for data collection. This study involved eight informants: two key informants and six supporting informants. The Noelbaki Village Head and a nutritionist from the Tarus Community Health Center served as key informants, while a mother of a stunted toddler, a pregnant woman, a village resident, and a young woman served as supporting informants. The data analysis process began with data collection from interviews, followed by data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that although the implemented policy is relatively effective, it does not fully meet the requirements of implementation theory. This is due to low education levels, limited human resources, a lack of understanding of stunting among pregnant women and parents, and a lack of infrastructure and facilities. Although communication between village governments and other implementers has been good, communication with target community members remains ineffective. Policy implementers understand the methods and responsibilities of their respective roles. Furthermore, they lack the technical skills necessary to prevent stunting. Based on these findings, it is recommended to increase the knowledge and participation of all parties in the implementation of stunting prevention policies.