1.Landscape Analysis of Potential First Foods in Somalia

Landscape Analysis of Potential First Foods in Somalia

Project Snapshot

Landscape Analysis of Potential First Foods
Client: UNICEF
Location: Nationwide, Somalia
Implementation Period: 09/2025–04/2026
Status: Ongoing
Sector: Agriculture/Nutrition
Target Groups:
Somali mothers, caregivers, infants, young children, and local health workers

Evaluation Objectives

The study seeks to:
1.Conduct a comprehensive analysis of potential first foods across diverse cultural and seasonal contexts.
2.Address gaps in understanding infant and young child feeding practices.
3.Identify food options that are context-appropriate for Somali caregivers.
4.Synthesize data regarding the availability, affordability, and market dynamics of these foods.

Background & Rationale

There are critical gaps in the understanding of complementary feeding practices and the availability of nutritious foods for infants in Somalia.

Tropical Consult is conducting this nationwide analysis to identify context-appropriate food options across various agro-ecological and seasonal contexts. This study is designed to directly inform and improve UNICEF’s nutrition programming.

Scope of Work

Tropical Consult is responsible for:
1.Preparing detailed inception reports.
2.Executing nationwide data collection.
3.Analyzing consumption patterns and market dynamics.
4.Preparing interim and final reports for stakeholders.

Methodology & Approach

Methodology & Approach
1. Applied a mixed-methods research design combining desk review, surveys, and qualitative interviews
2. Conducted Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with nutrition experts and health workers
3. Facilitated Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with caregivers and mothers
4. Assessed market availability and affordability of potential first foods
5. Applied data quality assurance and ethical research standards

Key Outputs & Deliverables

Key Outputs & Deliverables
1. Inception report and research protocol
2. Interim analytical report
3. Final landscape analysis report
4. Evidence-based recommendations for nutrition programming
5. Presentation of findings for stakeholders

Key Findings & Results

Key Findings & Results
1. Significant variation exists in first food options across agro-ecological zones
2. Locally available foods offer viable complementary feeding options when appropriately prepared
3. Affordability and seasonal availability influence feeding practices
4. Evidence supports integration of context-specific first foods into nutrition programming.

Beneficiaries & Stakeholders

Beneficiaries & Stakeholders
1. Infants and young children.
2. Mothers and caregivers.
3. Health workers and nutrition practitioners.
4. UNICEF and partner organizations
5. Government nutrition and health institutions.