The Role of Nutrition Education in Double Burden Malnutrition Prevention: Lessons from African and Global Contexts

Abstract

The double burden of malnutrition (DBM), or the coexistence of under-nutrition and overweight/obesity, has emerged as an urgent global health dilemma, especially in Africa where stunting, micronutrient deficiencies, and increasing non- communicable diseases (NCDs) coincide. This paper explores the potential role of nutrition education as a preventive and corrective measure to tackle DBM, learning from African experiences and international best practices. Evidence recognizes that school-based, maternal, and community-based education initiatives have a positive impact on dietary knowledge, behavior, and health outcomes, and nutrition education is a proven "double-duty action." Possibilities exist in Africa through school feeding programs, teacher-led interventions, and maternal health initiatives, although constraints in the form of limited resources, low capacity, and inadequate implementation are ongoing. Global case studies of Brazil, Thailand, and Mexico showcase the effect of nutrition education when supported by enabling food policies and environments. The review underscores that nutrition education alone is insufficient without enabling systems, healthy foods at low costs, ultra-processed food policies, and digital innovations to reach adolescents and vulnerable groups. Nigeria's policy environment shows sensitivity to nutrition education, yet long-term rollout and sustainability deficits limit impact. The study concludes that harmonization of nutrition education within multi-sectoral approaches linking health, education, and agriculture is central to combating DBM, advancing equity, and accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.