(P07-039-25) Enablers and Barriers to Implementing Early Childhood Development Assessment and Nutrition Interventions in Community Settings: Qualitative Case Study From Ethiopia

Objectives: The study aims to identify enablers and barriers to the implementation of ECD assessment and provision of nutrition-focused interventions in the community setting of Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia.

Methods: A qualitative case study was conducted in Hawassa City and Dore Bafano district of Sidama region from November 2023 to February 2024. Fifteen key informant interviews and five focus group discussions were conducted with purposively selected key informants from the health care system and mothers respectively. Pre-tested interview and discussion guides were used for data collection. A narrative thematic analysis was utilized at different levels of the socio-ecological model.

Results: The ECD policy and strategy landscape, existing health care system, communication and trust built between the health extension workers (HEWs) and the community, the existence of different mothers groups, and the HEWs positive attitudes were identified as enablers; however, gaps in ECD practical knowledge, commitment of HEWs and political leaders, lack of community awareness as well as the absence of training, facilities, and indicators of ECD were identified as barriers for the implementation of ECD assessment and provision of nutrition-interventions in the community settings.

Conclusions: Building the capacity of HEWs and health posts, and incorporating ECD indicators into HEWs' services and their supervision checklists will enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of ECD integration in the community, leading to improved child health and development outcomes.

Funding Sources: The research was funded by Hawassa University, by funds from Prof. Valiente’s professorship, and by the Norwegian University of Life (NMBU) Sciences.