Navigating intersectoral collaboration in nutrition programming: implementors' perspectives from Assam, India

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Public Health Policy
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Growing interest in intersectoral collaboration (ISC) for complex health issues.
• Limited empirical research on implementing, fostering, and sustaining ISC approaches.
• Focus on challenges within nutrition programming in Assam, India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore programme implementers' perceptions and experiences of ISC implementation.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to effective intersectoral collaboration in nutrition programming.
• To understand the structural and relational aspects influencing ISC.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative semi-structured, face-to-face in-depth interviews with 11 programme implementers.
• Purposeful sampling in two districts of Assam, India.
• Inductive thematic analysis of collected interview data.

Main Results:

• Three main themes: operationalization, facilitators, and barriers of ISC.
• Six subthemes identified: sectoral mandates, leadership, relationships, vision, resources, and power dynamics.
• Interpersonal relationships and power dynamics significantly influenced ISC formation.

Conclusions:

• Ongoing interest in ISC for nutrition programming, supported by political agendas.
• Success factors include clarifying roles, managing power dynamics, and systematic stakeholder engagement.
• Actionable plans with measurable targets are crucial for sustaining ISC and achieving positive outcomes.