Haiti reports rising acute malnutrition in children

Acute malnutrition among children aged six to 59 months in Haiti has risen significantly, according to the 2026 SMART National Nutrition Survey. The prevalence of global acute malnutrition, which includes moderate and severe wasting and nutritional oedema, increased from 5.1% in 2023 to 7.4% in 2026.

UNICEF Deputy Representative Yannig Dussart noted that these findings emerge amidst persistent insecurity, economic hardship, and growing humanitarian needs. These factors limit family access to nutritious food, healthcare, and essential nutrition services. Furthermore, serious violations against children tripled between 2023 and 2025, including attacks on schools and hospitals and the denial of humanitarian access.

Despite the rise in acute malnutrition, other nutrition indicators have shown progress. Chronic malnutrition, or stunting, among children under five declined from 22.8% in 2023 to 17.3% in 2026. Additionally, the early initiation of breastfeeding rose from 48% to 68%, and exclusive breastfeeding increased from 17.5% to 33% over the same period.