Implementation of Stunting Prevention and Management Policy in Gorontalo Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of stunting prevention policies in Gorontalo Regency, emphasizing the strategic role of family independence and nutrition education as determinants of policy success. A case study design conducted in Gorontalo Regency used a qualitative approach. Data were collected from key informants directly involved in policy implementation, including health department officials, medical staff, Posyandu cadres, and beneficiaries. Data collection techniques were conducted triangulate through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, then analyzed interactively based on the Miles and Huberman model. The research findings indicate that policy implementation still faces structural and cultural challenges, marked by the absence of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), weak inter-sectoral coordination, and inadequate implementation capacity, particularly at the village level. Additionally, low nutrition literacy and family economic capacity further hinder program effectiveness. Despite formal regulations and resources from various sectors, no integrated digital information system supports monitoring and coordination. This study concludes that the policy has not been able to transform planning into collaborative action with significant impact. Therefore, three main strategies are recommended: institutional strengthening through SOPs and performance-based incentives, digitalization of nutrition information systems, and empowerment of village implementers through modular training and a work ethic approach. These findings significantly enrich the public policy literature and can serve as a reference for contextual policies in other rural areas facing similar issues.