Zambia

In addition to all partners abiding by the core elements and principles of coordination and collaboration for SUN II programme support in Zambia, the Secretary to the Cabinet made nutrition a performance indicator for all Permanent Secretaries, including sectoral and provincial secretaries. This prioritization empowers sectors to deliver on nutrition and enables communities to demand services. This approach fosters collaboration and accountability through the tracking of progress and the identification of areas for improvement. The country's commitment to nutrition is evident in its comprehensive efforts and recognition of the population's well-being.

The National Food and Nutrition Commission (NFNC) strengthened the capacity of the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Vice-President on nutrition. This enabled a better understanding of the nutrition program and the Vice-President's role in operationalizing the Food and Nutrition Act. Additionally, the NFNC oriented provinces and district sector teams on sector contributions to nutrition, effective planning, and budgeting for nutrition. Sector guides on mainstreaming nutrition were shared, fostering a comprehensive approach to addressing nutrition across sectors.

The Vice-President of Zambia commenced her duty to provide oversight for nutrition through the operationalization of the Food and Nutrition Act. All partners renewed their commitment to coordination and
collaboration principles for the SUN II programme. The programme focused on
the First 1000 Most Critical Days Programme, with strategic objectives covering policy, interventions, institutional strengthening, advocacy and monitoring. A steering committee guided implementation, while lead partners coordinated interventions across districts. Various external agencies have funded programmes and initiatives. Coordination extended to the Government, the private sector, non-governmental organizations and civil society for complementary services.