The Role of Evidence in Nutrition Policymaking in Ethiopia: Institutional Structures and Issue Framing

The multi-sectoral nature of nutrition policymaking adds complexity to the implementation of effective programmes. This raises questions about why or how relevant policy change may come about within different country settings. Using a case study of Ethiopia, this chapter examines multi-sectoral nutrition policymaking, reflecting on different sectorial perspectives and the role and use of evidence within these. It draws on 23 in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted with stakeholders from health sector organisations, and a related documentary analysis. The chapter describes three issues which we argue remain unresolved: the framing of nutrition in Ethiopia; the development of internal nutrition logics in complementary sectors; and the remaining gaps in the evidence base. Despite Ethiopia’s strategic framework and its progress in terms of achieving nutrition targets, it shares the challenge of countries elsewhere in addressing nutrition as a multi-sectoral issue.