Food systems and market pathways to childhood stunting in mining communities: evidence from a cross-sectional survey and a synthesis of context-responsive nutrition interventions

Malnutrition remains a persistent global and public health challenge, with limited evidence available on the synthesis of empirical findings and feasibility of nutrition interventions across various settings, particularly in vulnerable mining communities. This study used empirical data, corresponding it with existing interventions to provide a benchmark for selecting effective nutrition strategies, thereby optimizing their impact. This study used a cross-sectional design and evidence review of nutrition interventions to discuss the results. The target population included under-five children and their caregivers. The study had a sample size of 690 and used multistage random sampling technique to select participants. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, direct child measurements, and interviews. Anthropometric data used WHO standards to assess underweight. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and chi-square tests while evaluating context-specific nutrition interventions for their effectiveness and feasibility. The study findings reveal a statistical significant association between owning a vegetable garden (P = 0.002), access to a market/farmers market (p < 0.001), access to income to buy food (P = 0.034), availability of food products (p < 0.001), access to main grocery store (p < 0.001), training in agriculture (p < 0.001), feeding strategies (p < 0.001) and under-five stunting. Based on the empirical data and analytical review of nutrition interventions, the following strategies are recommended: Community Nutrition Education Programs, Nutrition-Sensitive Social Protection Programs, Nutrition-Focused Community Health Workers (CHWs), Digital Health and Nutrition Platforms and Local Food System Development. Integrating these interventions with the study’s findings will enhance their effectiveness and maximize impact. The findings display the complex interplay of factors affecting child stunting and health. Findings emphasize the importance of considering diverse contextual factors, intervention intensity, and the integration of food system transformation to optimize the impact of nutrition interventions.