Prioritizing and Funding Nepal's Multisector Nutrition Plan

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Nepal has a history of developing multisectoral nutrition policies.
• Policy implementation effectiveness has varied, necessitating further evidence on successful execution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of Nepal's multisectoral nutrition plan (MSNP) on priority setting and budgeting processes between 2014 and 2016.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method longitudinal study design was employed.
• Qualitative data were gathered through interviews, observation, and document analysis.
• Budgetary changes were tracked using financial records and validation interviews across national and district levels.

Main Results:

• Understanding of the MSNP improved nationally and in study districts, though not in Village Development Committees (VDCs).
• Key enabling factors included human resources, ownership, bottom-up planning, coordination, advocacy, and sustainable structures.
• Significant increases in nutrition activities and funding were observed, with 28% of final-year allocations stemming from MSNP-affiliated initiatives.

Conclusions:

• The MSNP has demonstrably strengthened Nepal's nutrition system, enhancing both priority and funding.
• Future efforts should focus on improving linkages between national and sub-national levels.
• Nepal's experience provides a model for other countries seeking to increase investment in nutrition.