Multilevel analysis of prevalence and associated factors of minimum dietary diversity among children 6–23 months in Somaliland: evidence from Somaliland demographic and health survey (2020)

The study found that only 9.3% of children aged 6-23 months in Somaliland met the Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) criteria. Significant variations were observed in relation to the mother's educational attainment, with those possessing formal education exhibiting 2.45 times higher odds of their children achieving MDD (AOR = 2.45, 95%CI:1.26-4.77). Additionally, maternal age was a factor, as mothers aged 35 and above had 2.75 times higher odds (AOR = 2.75, 95%CI:1.00-7.12). Household wealth also played a critical role, with children from wealthier families having 6.78 times higher odds (AOR = 6.78, 95%CI:1.82-25.1). Geographic disparities were evident, as children residing in Togdheer had 95% lower odds (AOR = 0.05, 95%CI:0.00-0.299) than those in Awdal, and those in rural or nomadic settings experienced diminished access (AOR = 0.28-0.48). Given that 80.8% of mothers lack formal education and 97.7% have no media exposure, it is imperative to prioritise maternal literacy programs, region-specific agricultural support, and expanded media outreach to address these disparities.