Adhan Confident Stunting Reduction Target Can Still Be Achieved, Provided All Parties Work in an Integrated Way

Gorontalo Mayor Adhan Dambea expressed confidence that the national target of reducing stunting prevalence by 14 percent by 2024 could still be achieved if all parties worked in an integrated manner.This was conveyed by Adhan at the 2025 Gorontalo City-level stunting discussion activity which was combined with a coordination meeting of the stunting reduction acceleration team (TPPS), Wednesday (21/5/2025). "With our collective strength, these numbers are not difficult to achieve. The key is collaboration, commitment, and accurate data to support intervention programs," said Adhan.He explained that the acceleration of stunting reduction refers to Presidential Regulation (Perpres) Number 72 of 2021 and the National Action Plan (RAN PASTI) issued by the National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN). Handling is carried out through two approaches, namely specific nutritional interventions for direct causes, and sensitive nutritional interventions for indirect causes.At the forum, Adhan also highlighted the importance of involving the private sector, universities, the media, and the community within the pentahelix collaboration framework. Companies at the sub-district and village levels are expected to play a role as foster parents for stunted children.In addition, he encouraged the Health Service and Community Health Centers to actively provide nutritious, high-protein food to pregnant women and babies through Posyandu services. Education about balanced nutrition is also considered crucial for raising awareness among families at risk of stunting."Stunting isn't just about height. The most dangerous impact is its impact on intelligence, mental health, and susceptibility to chronic diseases," he stressed.Adhan has high hopes that the results of this discussion will not only become planning documents, but will actually be implemented in real actions on the ground.This Stunting Discussion aims to formulate technical strategies that will strengthen convergent actions, including addressing malnutrition, chronic energy deficiency in pregnant women, and improving basic sanitation in Gorontalo City.