NFNC Overview

Driving Change Through Communication and Advocacy

The National Food and Nutrition Commission (NFNC) is a statutory body set up by the Government under Act of Parliament No. 41 of 1967 which has since been repealed under the Act No. 3 of 2020. The Commission is a Government’s advisory body on all matters relating to food and nutrition. In its quest to improve the nutrition status of the Zambian population, the NFNC engages in a number of activities which include, but are not limited to, project implementation, research, training, collaboration, communication and advocacy.

One of the aims and objectives of the NFNC is to create community interest in food and nutrition. As such, the NFNC attaches high importance to communication and advocacy as it is the nerve center that disseminates research findings, influences policy in support of food and nutrition and triggers social and behavior change in individuals and families. In line with this, it produces various reports, social and behavior change materials and audio-visual materials.

To coordinate food and nutrition actions for optimal nutrition of the nation

To be a reliable leading institution for optimal nutrition for the nation

Creativity
Integrity
Teamwork
Equity
Accountability

Story Behind NFNC

Core Functions

The NFNC specific functions as provided for in the Act are as follows:

01

Formulate the national food and nutrition programme in the Republic;

02

Coordinate, monitor and evaluate food and nutrition programmes in order to improve delivery and access to food and nutrition services;

03

Issue and facilitate the implementation of guidelines for the purposes of this Act;

04

Carry out research on food and nutritional matters;

05

Develop and implement a nutrition surveillance system to monitor the food and nutrition situation in the Republic, particularly for vulnerable groups;

06

Advocate for good nutrition practices among the population;

07

Promote local nutritious foods;

08

Collaborate with other relevant institutions in matters relating to food and nutrition;

09

Establish and maintain a national food and nutrition information system;

10

Promote provision of adequate diet in public and private institutions;

11

In consultation with the Higher Education Authority, coordinate food and nutrition training, in national food and nutrition programmes;

12

Liaise with professional bodies and institutions at national, regional and international levels in matters related to food and nutrition;

13

Undertake nutrition assessments and make recommendations to address micronutrient deficiencies of public health significance;

14

15

The Government of the Republic of Zambia enacted the Food and
Nutrition ACT No. 3 of 2020 which mandated the National Food
and Nutrition Commission to Coordinate multi-sectoral response
through the food and nutrition program.
The Commission’s mandate is to provide leadership, and
coordinate the food and nutrition actions in the country.
The Executive Director oversees the operations of NFNC and is supported by the Depute Executive Director. The Depute

Executive Director is responsible for providing technical guidance
to the heads of units within the Commission.

The NFNC receives a monthly grant from Government through the Ministry of Health for administrative operations. In addition, Nutrition Cooperating Partners provide technical, financial and material support in the implementation of food and nutrition
programs.