Implementation of Convergence (Cross-Sectoral) Action for the Acceleration of Stunting Reduction in Palopo City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Background: The global trend of stunting incidence has been declining from 2000 to 2022; however, the WHO still categorizes Indonesia as a country with a very high prevalence of stunting. A multisectoral and multi-stakeholder approach is one of the methods utilized in the National Action Plan for Accelerating Stunting Reduction. This study aims to analyze the implementation of convergence actions for accelerating stunting reduction in Palopo City. Methods: The study was conducted for 1 months in Palopo City. This study was a qualitative study with 14 informants from different regional government agencies (OPDs) involved in the Palopo City Stunting Reduction Task Force (TPPS). Data related to the implementation convergence action for Accelerating Stunting Reduction in Palopo City owere obtained through in-depth interviews. Qualitative data were processed by searching for keywords and then content analysis was conducted. Qualitative data analysis uses an inductive thinking process. Results: The study reveals that at the initial stage, each OPD recognizes the importance of cross-sectoral participation. However, challenges persist in the utilization of human resources and budgeting. The collaboration process requires improvements as planning, governance structure, and actor roles are not yet optimal, with some OPDs still lacking clarity on their roles. Leadership in Palopo City involves regulation and communication, yet some OPDs lack specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulations, though inter-agency communication is fairly effective. The outputs of stunting interventions focus on health, education, infrastructure, and social welfare, with some programs being directly integrated while others provide indirect support. Conclusion: The implementation of convergence actions for accelerating stunting reduction in Palopo City is not yet optimal, with primary challenges in the utilization of human resources and budgeting. The collaboration process, leadership, and program outputs still require improvement, particularly in planning, governance structure, and inter-agency communication.