Multi-sectoral collaboration for improved nutrition: The problems and prospects of implementation in Ethiopia

Implementing nutrition initiatives through multi-sectoral collaboration is challenging. This qualitative study explores these challenges in two regions of Ethiopia, through interviews with development staff at lower administrative levels. Respondents identified structural and attitudinal causes of undernutrition. The health sector was perceived to have primary responsibility to address nutrition. The Women's Affairs office had a lesser role than expected. Agricultural officers still saw their primary mandate as increasing cereal production. Cross-sectoral collaboration was stronger in addressing short-term food crises rather than chronic undernutrition. There is a need to build a shared understanding of the causes of undernutrition, including the many constraints faced by resource-poor households, to provide more resources for implementation and to adopt a more gendered focus.