Since 2017, Data for Decisions in nutrition (DataDENT) has worked to transform the availability and use of nutrition data by addressing gaps in nutrition measurement and advocating for stronger nutrition data systems.
DataDENT is implemented by four institutions: Institute for International Programs at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (JHU), the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Results for Development Institute (R4D), and the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). JHU manages day-to-day operations of DataDENT.
CHALLENGES EXIST ACROSS THE DATA VALUE CHAIN
Strong Nutrition Data Value Chains are needed to support effective policies and programs and to advocate for nutrition investment across sectors. DataDENT aims to transform the availability and use of nutrition data by addressing gaps in nutrition measurement and advocating for stronger nutrition data systems
HOW WE WORK TO STRENGTHEN THE NUTRITION DATA VALUE CHAIN
PRIORITY AREA 1: Fill gaps and improve quality of nutrition coverage measurement in household and facility surveys
We are developing new coverage indicators (IYCF counseling; nutrition-sensitive social protection), promoting inclusion of nutrition coverage indicators in global and national surveys, and conducting research to improve the validity of coverage measurement.
PRIORITY AREA 2: Develop more effective approaches for data-driven nutrition accountability and advocacy
We are working to understand how data visualization and accountability tools are being designed and used by global and national nutrition actors, and providing technical assistance to develop more effective tools. We are also developing new indicators to measure the impact of multisector nutrition advocacy efforts.
PRIORITY AREA 3: Promote and support strategic planning and financing for data value chain strengthening
We are supporting nutrition data strategic planning efforts in two countries, contributing to global guidance on nutrition information systems and identifying how much global and national actors are currently investing in nutrition data & information systems.
PRIORITY AREA 4: Global and regional nutrition data value chain advocacy, coordination and dissemination
We are coordinating the Data for Nutrition Community of Practice, ensuring that nutrition data issues are being reflected in global nutrition agendas, and organizing regional and national events to promote investments in stronger nutrition data value chains.
WHERE WE WORK
DataDENT aims to develop and disseminate global public goods that serve diverse audiences. We ground our global efforts in more focused engagement in three countries – Nigeria, Ethiopia, and India through POSHAN. We have also worked with partners in Burkina Faso and with regional initiatives in West Africa and South Asia.
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