Description: While the use of the so-called Nutrition Improvement Projects (NIPs) to combat malnutrition in poor countries, particularly in the sub-Saharan region of Africa, seems inevitable, knowledge about how these projects actually work and how they should be designed for effective outcome is lacking. The present volume tackles this problem by suggesting a conceptual framework based on research findings in five such projects in Tanzania which included the internationally known Iringa Nutrition Project. The volume also answers the question of whether it is possible to sustain the impact of these projects without further 'push' from donors. The analysis suggests a 'yes' to the NIPs which are not dealing directly with primary health services or public goods. But for those involved in delivering primary health services, the institutions involved are in great disharmony causing high transaction costs. For such NIPs, support from donors seems to be necessary unless the government intervenes strongly.
