(P14-103-20) A Snapshot of Dietetics Practice in Africa

Objectives: To describe dietetics practice in various African countries.

Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was administered in 2018 to dietetic managers, educators and administrators in all 52 African countries.

Results: Representatives from 18 countries responded to the survey. They were mostly female (69%), about half had completed doctoral degrees (48%), a majority in training roles (84%) with 46% in administrative roles. Respondents ranked hospitals as the highest employer of dietitians, followed by private practice and teaching in higher education. Dietitians in seven countries needed to pass certification examinations post-graduation. Nine countries reported the existence of a professional society for dietitians, with only two of these affiliated with the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations. Only two professional societies are recognized as a trade union by their governments. Poor job prospects, lack of recognition of the profession by the general public and lack of funding for training programs were some challenges identified by respondents. When asked about the perception of dietetics integration and importance, 23% of respondents felt that dietetics was well integrated into the healthcare system whilst 33% felt dietitians were recognized as a key component of the healthcare system.

Conclusions: With the increase in disease burden from chronic diet-related diseases in Africa, dietetics practice needs to be prioritized and adequately funded to effectively contribute to the prevention and management of these diseases.

Funding Sources: No funding