Nutrition

Malawi and Zambia, neighboring countries located in Southeastern Africa, both have populations of about 17–18 million people; however population density is drastically different (11 people per square kilometer in Zambia compared to 192 people per square kilometer in Malawi). Malawi’s Human Development ranking is 0.485 as of 2018, putting it in the low human development category, with a position of 172 out of 189 countries and territories, while Zambia is categorized as medium human development at 143 out of 189 countries (HDI 0.591).

Malaita is known as the most populous province of the Solomon Islands, with high outputs of agricultural produce from its land and significant populations of ‘sea people’ highly reliant on coastal ecosystems for food and livelihoods. As Malaita grows in population and develops economically, it will face increasing pressure on its fisheries and marine resources to feed its population and create sustainable livelihoods. In some areas, fishing pressure has already led to decline of key fish species, and malnutrition remains a problem.

The 2019 Annual Report outlines WorldFish's achievements in quality science and innovations to shed light on, improve, and advocate for the role of aquatic food systems in the global food systems transformation. Through research outcome stories and impact numbers the report highlights efforts to improve aquatic foods’ vital contribution to healthier and sustainable diets, shared prosperity, and improved human and environmental health.

This nutrition brief outlines the rationale and focus of the Partnership for Aquaculture Development in Timor-Leste Phase 2 (PADTL2) project for enhancing the nutritional benefits of scaling out tilapia farming for targeted Timorese communities. The PADTL2 project (2020–2023) adopts a nutrition-sensitive approach focused on increasing the availability, accessibility, and consumption of fish.

This poster highlights the nutritional benefits of eating fish and is targeted at households in Timor-Leste. Eating tilapia is good for everyone, including pregnant and lactating women, babies, infants, children, and the elderly. Consumption of tilapia supports healthy growth and development, prevents heart diseases, and contributes to good brain function. Tilapia can be easily grown in a household pond or can be bought from restaurants, local markets, supermarkets, and local fish farmer groups. Tilapia is easy to cook—be it grilled, fried, or in a soup—and tastes delicious.