Intersectoral Integrated intervention to reduce malnutrition in drought-affected hotspot woreda (Euwa) of Afar Region (Priority 1) ltpgtThe humanitarian crisis in Afar region of Ethiopia is a complex emergency, characterized by a severe drought that has led to food shortages, malnutrition, and the risk of disease outbreaks. In response to this dire situation, GOAL Ethiopia, in collaboration with MCMDO, has planned  an integrated and multi-sectoral intervention designed to prevent and respond to the effects of the drought that places children, women, and vulnerable populations at the center.. This intervention focuses on an intersectoral package of services at health facilities, communities, and households with adequate access to quality health and nutrition services, and improvement of care practices with linkages to durable community-led local solutions through complementary nutrition-sensitive agricultural support and livelihood interventions as part of nexus and sustainable actions. The partnership leverages the organizations' established presence and deep understanding of the local context and drivers of malnutrition and the type of population, vulnerability, and severity, which is crucial to adapt the response to specific needs and for effective aid delivery. The consortium's efforts are further strengthened by their existing relationships with local authorities, ensuring that the aid reaches those in need promptly and efficiently. This strategic approach aims to provide immediate relief and contribute to the long-term resilience of the communities in the face of ongoing drought and conflict.  ltbrgt The lessons learned from previous intersectoral experience and coordination and work with local authorities in the region help to inform this intervention nexus of both immediate life-saving interventions and early recovery and resilience strategies through strengthening food, agriculture, and nutrition linkages with strategic approaches on nutritious food availability and targeting the same households with strong mainstreaming of protection intervention. With a One Million USD budget allocated for this purpose, the project aims to reach over 35,000 beneficiaries in the Afar region's Ewa woreda. This endeavour is in sync with the 2024 Emergency Humanitarian Framework, targeting malnutrition reduction in vulnerable areas. The sectors of Health, Nutrition, and Agriculture are strategically integrated to address acute malnutrition, with a special focus on children under five, pregnant and lactating women, and other high-risk groups. The project's integrated approach, combining nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive agricultural interventions, is designed to prevent the worsening of nutritional status and build resilience against future crises. Community engagement is a cornerstone of this project, ensuring that the interventions are tailored to the local context and empower the affected populations. The success of this project could serve as a model for similar humanitarian efforts globally. ltspangtlt/spangtlt/pgtltpgtltbrgtThe Nutrition and Health activities are essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by vulnerable communities. Through the implementation of this project, not only is the immediate threat of malnutrition and health disruptions being tackled, but a foundation is also being laid for long-term resilience and well-being. The focus on infant and young child feeding practices, along with the rehabilitation of health infrastructure, demonstrates a commitment to both present needs and future preparedness, ensuring that communities are equipped to handle health-related adversities with greater efficacy. ltbrgtlt/pgt