Harnessing multisector data to guide policy decision-making to help reduce malnutrition: findings from implementing the National Information Platforms for Nutrition in Africa, Asia and South America

Abstract

# Background An independent assessment was undertaken of the National Information Platform for Nutrition (NIPN) initiative. It examined whether NIPN has contributed to supporting the capacities of national authorities in Scaling up Nutrition (SUN) Movement countries to harness multisector nutrition-relevant data for informing nutrition policy and decision-making. # Methods A study protocol was developed to assess NIPNs contribution to indirect outcomes and the NIPN Theory of Change (ToC) was revised to guide the approach. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Development Assistance Criteria (DAC) were used to assess NIPNs Relevance, Coherence, Effectiveness, Impact and Sustainability. Data was gathered through extensive document reviews, structured stakeholder interviews and through country visits to Bangladesh, Kenya and Niger. # Results There is unanimity in the relevance of NIPN given the critical need for nutrition relevant multisector data and its analysis to help guide national policy and decision-making to tackle malnutrition. Coherence has been achieved through embedding ownership and activities in national statistics and policy relevant institutions though allied initiatives are not yet adequately harnessed. Each NIPN country has developed new capabilities to identify critical nutrition policy questions and analyse complex population level multisector data to address these questions and disseminate findings through policy briefing materials. Significant impacts are already being achieved through strengthening nutrition relevant data monitoring across sectors, re-analysis of complex data sets, improved visualization of data and through advocacy for more timely nutrition relevant data. More time and appropriate metrics are needed to assess the policy impact of NIPN activities, though in several countries the right environment to influence and change sector and multisector nutrition policies has been created. NIPN relies almost entirely on donor funding for its costs but increasing demand for NIPN products together with national ownership is seen as more likely to bring some degree of sustainability. # Conclusions NIPN works as a proof of concept demonstrating that working toward a more conducive environment for evidence-based decision-making in countries with a high burden of malnutrition is possible. Initiatives like NIPN are vital to operationalise multisector nutrition actions plans and achieve national targets and global commitments in nutrition.