Free Access | August 2023

Is restricting child-directed marketing of unhealthy foods and drinks in Uganda feasible?

Authors/Editors: Madina M. Guloba (PhD) ,  Blessing Atwine ,  Mary Kajumba Muhuruzi

Abstract:

Marketing of unhealthy foods and non-alcoholic beverages high in saturated fats, trans-fatty acids, free sugars, or salt to children increases child obesity. In Uganda, 5 percent of children under five were overweight or obese. School-age children (ages 3 to 16) had a high prevalence of obesity (32.3 percent) and overweight (21.7 percent). The World Health Organization recommends restricting child-directed marketing of unhealthy foods and drinks to reduce exposure to poor diets. Even though Uganda has yet to adopt this intervention, findings reveal a high possibility of buy-in from most Ministries and government institutions if an independent food authority is established, adequate resources are allocated, and the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is strengthened to enforce this intervention.