Enhancing food systems for sustainable and healthy diets through nutrition-sensitive value chains: Key insights from Tanna, Vanuatu

Even, B.; Hernandez, R.; Nabuuma, D. (2025) Enhancing food systems for sustainable and healthy diets through nutrition-sensitive value chains: Key insights from Tanna, Vanuatu. 12 p.

This brief presents key insights from the Melanesia Rural Market and Innovation-Driven (MERMAID) Programme in Tanna, Vanuatu, where nutrition-sensitive value chains (NSVCs) were used to enhance food systems for sustainable and healthy diets. The study applied a structured four-step NSVC methodology to assess local nutrition challenges, prioritize nutrient-rich commodities, and analyze selected agri-food value chains. Findings highlight the potential of targeted interventions to improve both nutrition and livelihoods. The brief outlines context-specific strategies across production, marketing, and consumption, emphasizing the importance of social inclusion, gender equity, and behavior change. It provides actionable pathways to strengthen food systems in climate-vulnerable and resource-constrained settings.