Nutrition knowledge of caregivers and feeding practices of children 6-59 months in rural Kajiado central, Kenya

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health concern, particularly in developing countries. This study explores the nutrition knowledge of caregivers and its association with feeding practices among children aged 6-59 months in the Maasai community of Rural Kajiado Central, Kenya. Traditional practices and cultural norms significantly influence daily life in this community, emphasizing the need to understand caregivers' nutritional knowledge and its association with child-feeding practices. Objective: The study aims to determine the association between nutrition knowledge of the caregivers and feeding practices among children aged 6-59 months in rural Kajiado Central, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed study design was employed, with data collected from caregivers (N=294) using a pre-tested questionnaire. Nutrition knowledge was assessed through a nutrition test, and feeding practices were evaluated using a 24-hour recall and dietary diversity score. Focus Group Discussions provided qualitative insights. Data were analysed using SPSS V26, Nutri-survey software, and qualitative thematic analysis. Results: Caregivers demonstrated high nutrition knowledge (60.9% high, 3.4% very high), yet feeding practices revealed challenges. Most children consumed three meals daily, but dietary diversity was limited, focusing on cereals, milk, and fats. Despite high knowledge levels, there was no significant association between nutrition knowledge and several feeding practices (p>0.05). Conclusion: Improving dietary diversity requires addressing infrastructural barriers alongside nutrition education. The study emphasizes the complex interplay between nutritional practices, socio-economic factors, and educational opportunities, highlighting the need for holistic interventions. Recommendations: Infrastructure support is crucial to improving food accessibility in rural areas. Nutrition education alone may not suffice to enhance feeding practices and nutritional status.