Strategic Management for Stunting Prevention and Reduction

Abstract

Stunting remains a major public health challenge in Central Sulawesi, where the prevalence reaches 27.2%, exceeding the national average of 24.2%. Sigi District is among the highest‑burdened areas, with a prevalence of 24.6%, and Dolo Subdistrict reported 22.34% stunting among 976 children under five in 2024. Priority loci include Wisolo, Poi, and Waturalele Villages, where inadequate maternal knowledge, inappropriate parenting practices, and poor sanitation continue to hinder progress toward the regional target of reducing stunting to 14.2% by 2029. The objective of this study was to analyze the underlying determinants of stunting and formulate improvement strategies using a SWOT‑based strategic management approach. A qualitative design was applied through environmental scanning, strategy formulation, implementation, and evaluation using IFE, EFE, IE, and SWOT matrices. Informants included the head of the community health center, stunting program managers, village midwives, and the Stunting Reduction Acceleration Team. Data analysis followed the four stages of strategic management supported by the aforementioned matrices. The results showed that the primary contributing factors were limited nutritional knowledge, suboptimal caregiving practices, and inadequate sanitation access. Existing strategies such as the “Sejuta Telur” program, “Tangguh Bersinar,” and specific and sensitive nutrition interventions were identified as ongoing efforts. SWOT analysis positioned the organization to strengthen data‑driven planning, optimize resource allocation, and enhance convergence across 14 local government agencies. Improved coordination and real‑time data utilization were found essential to overcoming field‑level barriers. In conclusion, optimizing strategic management through cross‑sector program integration and strengthened community education is critical for accelerating stunting reduction and achieving regional targets.

Keywords: strategic management; stunting; SWOT analysis