Plumpynut, a peanut-based paste, is a Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) specifically designed to treat severe acute malnutrition in children. Unfortunately, this essential food supplement is being sold illegally in Kitgum Municipality.
The life-saving therapeutic food intended for malnourished
children has surfaced in the black market in Kitgum, raising concerns
about the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations.
Plumpynut, a peanut-based paste, is a Ready-to-Use
Therapeutic Food (RUTF) specifically designed to treat severe acute
malnutrition in children. Unfortunately, this essential food supplement is
being sold illegally in Kitgum Municipality.
Hajj Marijan Walire, the
Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Kitgum, expressed concern over the
presence of Plumpynut and pledged to take action, adding that these are drugs,
not food as some perceive.
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Dr Henry Okello Otto, the Kitgum District Health Officer,
confirmed that Plumpynut is being widely sold on the streets, particularly at
mobile money points.
He cautioned against the dangers of consuming Plumpynut
without a medical prescription.
He said that eating the supplement without
guidance from a healthcare worker could lead to overweight
and obesity.
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According to Otto, investigations revealed that Plumpynut is
being smuggled into Kitgum from the neighbouring Lamwo District, particularly
from the Palabek Refugee Settlement Camp, where development partners distribute
it to malnourished children.
Some mobile money agents and private drug shops in Kitgum
Municipality are openly selling Plumpynut at inflated prices, with each sachet sold at 1,500-2,000 Shillings. This raises concerns about the authenticity
and safety of the products being sold.
Dr. Okello said that the black market trade endangers malnourished children,
pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups.
Opoka Denis
Freelancer