NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS IN THE FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION OF SMALLHOLDERS AFFLICTED BY HIV/AIDS IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

ABSTRACT A review of references regarding the nutritional composition of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) commonly consumed in sub-Saharan Africa was conducted. Species having significant amounts of nutrients critical to the nutrition of people living with HIV/AIDS were short listed, and their nutritional values compared to those of recommended conventional foods and daily nutrient intakes. The current and potential value of edible NTFPs in contributing to the nutritional needs of people living with HIV/AIDS suggests that the integration of natural resources and natural resource management in multisectoral HIV/AIDS programs is appropriate and necessary. The process through which such integration can be achieved is explained and demonstrated. Recommendations are made on how the natural resource sector can cooperate with the health sector in the development of nutrition interventions adapted to the coping strategies of HIV/AIDS-afflicted smallholders.