Understanding Child Acute Malnutrition in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties, Kenya | USAID Nawiri Longitudinal Study Learning Brief 4

Helen Young, Sophie Ochola, Anastasia Marshak, Elizabeth Stites, Achiba Gargule, Elijah Odundo, Ayane Ezaki, and Josue Awonon

Child acute malnutrition remains high in northern Kenya, especially among older children (ages 3–5). Few individual- and household-level variables are consistently associated with child acute malnutrition, pointing instead to the role of basic drivers that affect communities. Pastoralism plays a key role in supporting nutrition, food security, and resilience, but faces challenges in adapting to changing pressures. This brief examines the drivers of malnutrition in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties and their implications for policy and programs.