Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of Government Policies on Infant and Young Child Feeding and Food Fortification in Benin.

This article examines the barriers and facilitators affecting the implementation of Benin's government policies on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) and food fortification, aimed at preventing micronutrient deficiencies and addressing malnutrition. Through in-depth interviews with 23 key stakeholders from government ministries, NGOs, and consumer organizations, the study identifies major challenges including low staff motivation, insufficient financial and training resources, cultural resistance to new feeding practices, and weak monitoring systems for fortified foods. Facilitators highlighted include strong political commitment, partnerships with international organizations such as UNICEF and WHO, intersectoral collaboration, and involvement of local producers and professional associations. The findings suggest that despite persistent obstacles, leveraging political will and international support offers opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of nutrition policies in Benin.