Measuring the Cost of Hunger in Africa: This study was completed in 4 countries (Egypt, Ethiopia, Swaziland and Uganda). The overarching objective of the multi-country study led by the AUC, NEPAD, WFP and UNECA, is to catalyse coordinated action and inform the design of nutrition-oriented policy frameworks and programmes, with greater investments to eradicate child undernutrition on the continent.

10 findings from the first phase of the “Measuring the Cost of hunger” study:

1. There are more stunted children in Africa today than there were 20 years ago. 
2. 69 to 82 per cent of all cases of child undernutrition are not properly treated. 
3. Most of the health costs associated with undernutrition occur before the child turns one year old
4. 4 between 7 and 16 per cent of grade repetitions at schools are associated with stunting.
5. Stunted children complete 0.2 to 1.2 years less in school education. 
6. 8 to 28 per cent of all child mortality is associated with undernutrition.
7. Child mortality associated with undernutrition has reduced national workforces by between 1 and 8 per cent 
8. 40 to 67 per cent of working-age populations suffered from stunting as children. 
9. The annual costs associated with child undernutrition reach values equivalent to 1.9 to 16.5 per cent of gross domestic product.
10. Eliminating stunting in africa is a necessary step for inclusive development on the continent.