Youth Empowerment Forum (YEF) Nutrition Programme Overview

(YEF Nutrition)

The Youth Empowerment Forum (YEF) Nutrition Programme is a community-based initiative aimed at improving food security, nutritional well-being, and healthy lifestyles among children and youth. The programme recognises proper nutrition as essential to physical development, cognitive performance, educational outcomes, and overall quality of life.

The YEF Nutrition Programme addresses hunger and malnutrition in underserved communities while promoting nutrition education, sustainable food practices, and community participation.

Child and Youth Nutrition Support

The programme provides nutritious meals and food support to children and youth participating in YEF programmes, including ECD centres, schools, sports activities, and after-school initiatives. By ensuring consistent access to balanced meals, the programme supports learning, concentration, and physical performance.

Key interventions include:

• Meal and snack provision for programme participants

• Nutrition support for ECD and school-aged children

• Food parcels and emergency nutrition assistance where needed

Nutrition Education and Healthy Living

YEF integrates nutrition education into its programmes to promote healthy eating habits and informed food choices. Participants learn about balanced diets, food groups, meal planning, and the link between nutrition, health, and performance.

The programme also encourages:

• Healthy lifestyle and wellness awareness

• Prevention of lifestyle-related illnesses

• Positive relationships with food from an early age

Community Food Initiatives and Sustainability

To strengthen long-term food security, the programme supports community-based food initiatives such as food gardens, urban agriculture, and cooperative food projects. These initiatives promote self-reliance, skills development, and local food production.

Partnerships and Community Engagement

The YEF Nutrition Programme works in partnership with schools, ECD centres, community organisations, local farmers, and donors to expand access to nutritious food and resources. Community involvement is central to ensuring sustainability and local ownership.

Advocacy for Food Security and Equity

YEF advocates for improved food security, nutrition support, and equitable access to healthy food for children and youth. The programme engages stakeholders and policymakers to address systemic barriers contributing to hunger and malnutrition.