NutriLEAP: A Pathway to Healthier Provinces

The Nutrition Leadership and Equity Acceleration Program (NutriLEAP) is aimed at improving nutrition in provinces across the Philippines. Designed by the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) and supported by the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), this program focuses on enhancing leadership and governance in the fight against malnutrition.

The program helps governors and their teams assess the current state of their local nutrition systems and implement strategic actions. NutriLEAP equips local leaders to actively engage with stakeholders and work towards real, lasting change. The focus is on identifying gaps in nutrition systems, setting achievable goals, and ensuring that these goals are met with ongoing commitment.

Why Focus on Leadership and Governance?

The idea behind NutriLEAP is simple: good leadership can drive progress. Governors play a critical role in shaping provincial nutrition programs. By understanding local data, identifying key issues, and working with a team of experts, they can implement policies that directly target malnutrition at the local level. The program emphasizes collaboration between the provincial core team, local nutrition committees, and the communities they serve. This is where leadership and governance are most crucial.

Hands-On Learning: Module 1 Overview

The first module of NutriLEAP’s Executive Session for Governors (ESG), held last August 23, 2024, zeroed in on building leadership and governance skills. Governors learn how to analyze local nutrition data, apply best practices, and create action plans that can be effectively implemented in their provinces.

Davao Oriental Governor Niño Sotero Uy Jr., Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo Demerey Jr., their respective teams, and representatives of Tawi-Tawi took part in the one-day training session on leadership and governance. During the session, they analyzed local nutrition data, identified priority issues, and created action plans to improve nutrition systems in their provinces. The ultimate goal is to foster a culture of continuous learning, teamwork, and accountability—key ingredients for lasting change.

From Data to Action

One of the highlights of NutriLEAP is its data-driven approach. Governors are trained to use data not just for assessment, but for action. They are encouraged to set high targets—aiming for at least 90% of key nutrition services to be delivered. Regular monitoring and progress updates help keep everyone on track, while improving the Local Nutrition Action Plan ensures that targets are aligned with provincial goals.

Governors also take on the role of advocates. By communicating their province’s nutrition goals to mayors and other local officials, they pave the way for best practices to be adopted down to the barangay level.

Moving Forward Together

The program is already showing promise. Several provinces have participated, with Davao Oriental leading the charge. Other provinces like Mountain Province and North Cotabato are also exploring ways to get involved. Each of these provinces faces unique challenges, from stunting in children to broader health and equity concerns, but the shared goal remains clear: improving nutrition for all.

In the end, NutriLEAP is about more than just reducing malnutrition—it’s about empowering local leaders to take ownership of the issue and create sustainable, positive change for their communities. With the right leadership and governance in place, the path to healthier provinces is within reach.