Hashim Msusa

Ambitious objectives for national growth are outlined in Malawi’s 2063 agenda, with a focus on human capital development as a key enabler. According to this framework, one of the most important issues to address is “health and nutrition,” acknowledging their critical role in promoting the development and wellbeing of the country’s human resources.

From an Islamic perspective, the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) place a strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining good health and nutrition as crucial elements of the development of human capital. The fundamental relationship between health, nutrition, and the accomplishment of Malawi’s 2063 program is explored in this write-up, stressing Islamic concepts that support a holistic approach to well-being.

The health of the human body is of utmost importance to Islam, which regards it as a gift from Allah (God). The Qur’an reminds people of their duty to look for their bodies and abstain from actions that can be detrimental to their health and wellbeing. And do not cast yourselves into destruction, says Allah. (2:195) This verse serves as a reminder to keep good health and abstain from behaviours that could endanger it.

The Qur’an also promotes balance and moderation in all facets of life, including diet. In the Quran, Allah commands, “Eat and drink, but be not excessive.” ( 7:31)  This verse emphasizes the significance of eating a balanced diet and avoiding overindulging, which can cause health problems. It emphasizes the Islamic tenet of exercising restraint and self-control for total well-being.

The Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace Be Upon Him) teachings place even more emphasis on the value of good health and nutrition for the growth of human capital. He emphasized the significance of keeping excellent physical and mental health because it immediately affects one’s capacity to carry out their religious and worldly obligations. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) taught, “Your body has rights over you.” This teaching emphasizes the need to look after one’s body, respecting its rights and placing a priority on its health.

Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) encouraged a balanced approach to nutrition, highlighting the importance of consuming wholesome food and avoiding harmful substances. He advised: “A human being fills no worse vessel than his stomach.” This guidance emphasizes the significance of consuming nutritious and wholesome food, avoiding overindulgence, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Health and nutrition are categorized as human capital development under Malawi’s 2063 plan. Given that people are the country’s most precious resource, spending money on their health and happiness is essential for their holistic growth and overall productivity. The development of human capital must include initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles, provide access to high-quality healthcare, and fight malnutrition.

Enabler 5 of Malawi’s 2063 agenda which includes “Health and Nutrition” are in perfect harmony with the Islamic perspective on nutrition and health. Islam promotes a holistic approach for human development and acknowledges the interdependence of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Malawi may improve human capital development and pave the way for a prosperous and healthy country by infusing these teachings into policies and strategies that are concerned with nutrition and health.

In conclusion, the significance of health and nutrition as catalysts for the growth of human capital is prominent in Malawi’s 2063 agenda. Islam, drawing teachings from the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), emphasizes the importance of maintaining good health and nutrition.