Abstract
{ "background": "Child undernutrition remains a critical public health challenge in urban informal settlements, where conventional growth monitoring is often inaccessible. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies present a potential solution for improving surveillance and caregiver support in these resource-constrained settings.", "purpose and objectives": "This case study assessed the implementation and effectiveness of a bespoke mHealth application designed for community health workers to monitor child growth and deliver automated, tailored nutritional guidance to caregivers in Kampala's informal settlements.", "methodology": "A mixed-methods implementation study was conducted. Community health workers used the application to record anthropometric data (height, weight, mid-upper arm circumference) during household visits. The application calculated z-scores and triggered automated, context-specific SMS advice to caregivers based on the child's growth trajectory. Effectiveness was evaluated using a pre-post design, with child growth status as the primary outcome. A linear mixed-effects model, $\\text{HAZ}{ij} = \\beta0 + \\beta1 \\text{Time}{ij} + u{0j} + \\epsilon{ij}$, where $i$ denotes measurement and $j$ denotes child, was fitted to assess change in height-for-age z-score (HAZ).", "findings": "The intervention was associated with a statistically significant improvement in mean HAZ after six months (estimated coefficient $\\beta_1 = 0.24$, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.37). The prevalence of moderate stunting decreased by 8.2 percentage points. Qualitative feedback indicated high caregiver satisfaction with the personalised advice, which was perceived as actionable within their financial and food security constraints.", "conclusion": "The mHealth intervention demonstrated feasibility and a positive association with improved linear growth among children in an informal urban setting. It represents a scalable tool for strengthening community-based nutrition services.", "recommendations": "Integrate the application into the national community health information system. Secure sustainable funding for data costs for health workers. Expand the