The Framing of Malnutrition by Parliamentarians in Uganda

The quest for political commitment to reducing malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa draws attention to the role of national parliamentarians. Whereas parliamentarians have the authority to ratify legislation, monitor policies and budgets and transform behaviour, little is known about how malnutrition is understood and debated in sub-Saharan African political arenas. This study explores how (mal)nutrition has been framed by parliamentarians in Uganda between 2001 and 2017. Through qualitative content analysis of 131 Parliament Hansards transcripts, we identified different meanings of nutrition, distinguishing seven co-occurring and sometimes competing framings of the drivers and possible solutions of malnutrition including, those sponsored by different groups of parliamentarians. Our analysis sheds light on why policy measures are prioritized or disregarded by policymakers. Overall, we show frame sponsors prioritize short-term tangible solutions over longer term solutions. We suggest a more comprehensive policy frame is prerequisite to developing a more effective governance approach to malnutrition in Uganda.