The Executive Director of ACF-N participated in the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum held in N’Djamena in November 2024, joining regional leaders, development partners, and humanitarian organizations to discuss shared challenges and opportunities across the Lake Chad region. The forum served as a high-level platform aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation, improving stability, and promoting sustainable development within affected communities. During the sessions, the Executive Director emphasized the importance of community-centered development and inclusive humanitarian approaches that prioritize resilience, livelihoods, education, and nutrition. He highlighted ACF-N’s ongoing efforts in supporting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, who continue to face the impacts of conflict, displacement, climate change, and food insecurity. The forum also focused on strengthening collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners. Key dialogue topics included improving local governance, expanding access to social services, fostering economic recovery, and advancing peacebuilding initiatives. ACF-N’s presence at the event reflects the organization’s commitment to regional cooperation and shared action for long-term stability and development. By working alongside policymakers and development actors, the organization continues to advocate for sustainable solutions that empower communities and restore hope across the Lake Chad Basin.

The Executive Director of ACF-N, alongside the community leadership and program team, recently carried out a community entry visit in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen nutrition services in the region. The visit brought together community leaders, health representatives, and local influencers to discuss the nutritional needs of children, mothers, and vulnerable households. During the engagement, the Executive Director highlighted the importance of collaborative action in addressing malnutrition, emphasizing that sustainable progress can only be achieved when communities are actively involved in planning and implementation. Community leaders expressed their commitment to supporting awareness campaigns, promoting healthy feeding practices, and ensuring that families access available nutrition services. This community entry activity serves as a foundational step in building trust, strengthening partnerships, and aligning strategies with the community’s unique needs. As programs are rolled out, ACF-N remains dedicated to improving child nutrition outcomes, enhancing local capacity, and fostering long-term resilience across Nguru and neighboring communities. A shared group photo was taken to mark the collaboration and collective vision for a healthier, stronger, and well-nourished community.

ACF-N recently conducted a three-day capacity building training for Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP) service providers on the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM). The training brought together frontline health workers, nutrition officers, and community-based volunteers who play a key role in the timely identification, treatment, and follow-up care of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. The session focused on strengthening skills in screening, admission criteria, case management, documentation, community follow-up, and discharge procedures. Participants were also trained on the correct use of therapeutic foods, counseling caregivers on appropriate feeding practices, and ensuring early detection to prevent complications. Speaking during the training, the lead facilitator emphasized that effective management of acute malnutrition requires both technical knowledge and community engagement. He noted that empowering service providers is essential to improving the quality of nutrition services and reducing child mortality in vulnerable communities. Participants expressed appreciation for the training, noting that the hands-on demonstrations, group discussions, and practical sessions deepened their understanding and confidence. Many highlighted the importance of continuous professional development to maintain high standards of care. This capacity building initiative represents a critical step in strengthening community-based nutrition programs and ensuring that children with acute malnutrition receive timely, effective, and life-saving care.