1. Group 3: Coordination

2. Preparedness: Constraints
Lack of coordination among key sectors and partners
Nutrition not considered a priority in most countries, hence IYCF not a priority
Absence of policies
IYCF
Code
Lack of proper guidelines for policy implementation
Lack of mechanisms for coordination with the military in emergencies
Lack of coordinated and harmonised capacity development (IYCF trainers, counselors, motivators, BCC, etc.)
Misguided reporting by the MEDIA
Lack of baseline data on IFE

3. Preparedness: Solutions
Appropriately implement the cluster approach with clearly defined TORs (e.g, food vis-a-vis nutrition)
Govt leadership and involvement from the beginning
Advocacy and technical support for Govt commitment to IYCF
Advocacy for placing nutrition and IFE high on Govt agenda
Technical and managerial support to ensure effective implementation of IYCF actions
Media briefing and press conferences on key issues on IYCF
Develop standardized messages for the Media
Ensure availability of IFE baseline data before emergency strikes
Ensure harmonised and coordinated training of health workers and breastfeeding counsellors
Adoption of Operational Guidance on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies

4. Early Response: Constraints
IFE not included in initial rapid assessments
IFE not considered as priority in emergency responses – (absent in Joint Appeals)
IFE often not included in Joint Appeals
Lack of sectoral coordination in humanitarian responses
Lack of registration/identification of U5 children in emergencies, hence appropriate responses not identified
Regular food basket lacks age specific food items, especially for complementary feeding

5. Early Response: Solutions
IFE to be included in initial assessments
IFE to be included in joint appeals
Registration of U5 children to identify separated/orphaned children
Coordinated decision making on the food basket for emergencies
Provision of multiple micronutrients for pregnant and lactating women and children 6-59 months
Coordination with WASH to ensure secure access to safe water and sanitation facilities
Coordination with the military and other sectors to ensure appropriate IFE responses
Coordination in support to non-breastfed infants
Coordination in monitoring of use of BMS and infant formula