Fill the Nutrient Gap in the Kyrgyz Republic

The Kyrgyz Republic faces a complex and evolving nutrition challenge. Despite progress in reducing childhood malnutrition over the past decade, recent trends show stagnation and even reversal in key indicators. Child stunting has risen from 12 to 14 percent, while wasting and overweight levels remain largely unchanged. Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread, and limited affordability of nutritious foods continues to constrain healthier choices. Poor diet quality is driving higher rates of anaemia, obesity, and diet-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. 

To support national efforts, the 2025 Fill the Nutrient Gap (FNG) analysis was conducted by WFP in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education, using the ENHANCE platform. This multisectoral approach highlights the need for coordinated action across agriculture, health, and education systems to strengthen food systems, improve dietary practices, and achieve better nutrition outcomes nationwide.  

The analysis assessed the cost and affordability of energy-only and nutrient-adequate diets across all regions of the Kyrgyz Republic. Findings show that while most households can meet basic energy needs, 43 percent of the population cannot afford a nutritious diet. Addressing affordability and access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods is therefore critical to achieving national development goals and reducing malnutrition in all its forms. The findings underscore the importance of strengthened social protection, school meals, food fortification, and behaviour change interventions. 

The FNG provides a robust evidence base to guide national policies, including the Food Security Law, the Food Security and Nutrition Programme (2025–2030), and the National Social and Behaviour Change Communication Strategy on Nutrition.