Kampala — THE Ministry of Health has closed the Nutrition and Early Childhood Development Project (NECDP) in five districts including war-hit Gulu and Bundibugyo.

The letters of closure dated August 27, and addressed to the Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), said the decision follows the failure of the affected districts to pay their contribution.

The CAOs have been advised to settle only outstanding salaries and bills.

Copies of the letters which the New Vision obtained, were signed by Dr. John K. Mutumba on behalf of the ministry's permanent secretary.

Other affected districts were Rakai, Kumi and Sembabule.

The NECDP, which is funded by the World Bank, was launched in 1998 with the aim of improving the feeding patterns of children under six years.

The project involved giving mothers skills to take care of their children and supporting income generating activities.