National Food and Nutrition Security System (SAMAT), A Tool for Identifying and Monitoring Food Insecurity in the Country

Background and objectives: Iran was reported in the high-risk group of World Food Security Map in 2008 .Identifying food insecurity is first step for executing interventions. Measuring household food security is its cornerstone. SAMAT System was designed to provide a variety of GIS-based reports to policy makers and managers in the field of food security. Methods and Materials: SAMAT system was developed by a team working with various specialties. The system was analyzed using Rational Unified Process methodology and after optimization and normalization process, centralized database was formed. SQL Server 2014 software was used for its implementation. SharpMap open source engine was used to render spatial data and display maps on the web, and many parts of the engine were coded specifically to meet different organizational needs. The system was designed using the WEB GIS engine.  Results: SAMAT system was executed in nine provinces of the country in different periods. SAMAT dashboard provides a variety of information for executive managers. Based on demographic data, the state of food insecurity can be identified at different levels from city to village, in a variety of graphs. A spectrum from the urban distribution to the local distribution of food insecurity can be identified on the GIS map. Zooming in on different areas can help to identify more food insecure neighborhoods within the village or town, thus giving managers the priority of food insecurity interventions at the neighborhood or village level. One can view household characteristics and the results of questionnaire information . Conclusion:  SAMAT system can be useful for managing food security at the national, provincial, city and even rural or urban levels. we recommend periodically prioritizing points, Identifying the provinces and re-evaluating the effectiveness of interventions through the SAMAT-based system after comprehensive implementation of food insecurity reduction 

Keywords:

Nutritional Status , Software , Geographic Information Systems , Food Supply