TOFI is deeply committed to advancing child health and nutrition through innovative, community-driven approaches. Since 2011, we have been at the forefront of the Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) model, pioneering its implementation in Somalia and expanding globally with measurable impact.
Transforming Malnutrition Treatment
Our CMAM programs are designed to treat malnutrition effectively while ensuring accessibility for vulnerable populations. Since initiating comprehensive tracking of CMAM data in 2016, TOFI has provided life-saving treatment to over 500,000 children under five and more than 20,000 pregnant and lactating women across 31 countries. Among the 150,000 children treated for severe wasting, 80% achieved full recovery—exceeding the Global Sphere Standard of 75%.
Based on a rigorous analysis of lives saved, it is estimated that TOFI’s CMAM interventions have contributed to preventing between 41,234 and 120,321 child deaths under the age of five from 2011 to 2022.
A Dual Focus: Prevention and Treatment
TOFI’s health programming maintains a balanced focus on both remedial care and preventive health measures. We prioritize strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC) systems, especially in fragile, emergency, and development contexts. Our work spans across Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, where we have successfully supported the recovery of severely malnourished children through integrated health and nutrition responses.
To prevent illness and disease, we engage community health workers and families in training programs that emphasize hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention. Initiatives include distributing insecticide-treated bed nets to protect children from malaria and providing access to essential medicines and medical supplies in underserved areas.
Addressing Root Causes
Beyond clinical care, TOFI tackles the structural causes of poor health outcomes. We address early pregnancy, limited access to reproductive health services, and the social injustices that prevent children from accessing adequate healthcare. Our aim is to restore hope and dignity by ensuring that even the most marginalized children can thrive in safe, healthy environments.
The CMAM Approach: Community-Centered Care
For over two decades, CMAM has proven to be one of the most effective global strategies for addressing acute malnutrition. Its success lies in the community-based model, which treats children in their homes. This approach reduces the burden on caregivers—eliminating the need for long travel while reaching more children with timely care.
Children enrolled in CMAM receive weekly medical assessments and a supply of therapeutic food, enriched with essential micronutrients to support recovery. Additionally, we employ the CMAM Surge model, which adapts services in anticipation of seasonal peaks in malnutrition cases, ensuring resources are available when demand is highest.
Our Vision for Health Equity
Despite significant progress, many children continue to suffer from preventable illnesses due to violence, displacement, and systemic neglect. TOFI remains committed to advocating for stronger health systems, improving hygiene and nutrition, and expanding access to quality care—especially for those most at risk.
Through community-led action, evidence-based programming, and a relentless focus on results, TOFI is working to build a future where all children not only survive—but thrive.
