Editor,

Recent research on stunting (growth retardation), both in Rwanda and in other countries, showed that the key issue for stunting is appropriate environmental health rather than adequate diets (which are of course important too).

Most of the excess stunting in Rwanda can be explained by inadequate access to clean water and improved sanitation. Focusing on food intake alone isn’t likely to bring stunting rates down significantly.

Tom B.

Reaction to the story, "Anti-malnutrition drive puts smile on mothers’ faces” (The New Times, September 25)