December 02, 2024

Millers for Nutrition initiative launched to tackle malnutrition in Ethiopia

December 2, 2024 - Millers for Nutrition, a coalition of food fortification stakeholders, officially launched in Ethiopia, marking a significant stride in the nation's effort to combat malnutrition. Hosted by TechnoServe, the launch event will highlight the essential contributions of millers in enhancing public health through food fortification thereby improving Ethiopians' health.

Ethiopia has made remarkable strides in improving nutrition over the past two decades, tanks to support from the Government of Ethiopia and effective health and agriculture extension systems.

However, despite these achievements, the country continues to face pressing nutritional challenges. According to recent data from the Manufacturing Industry Development Institute's Food and Beverage Industry Research and Development Center, 39% of children under five are stunted, 22% are underweight and 11% are wasted. These statistics highlight the urgent need for continued efforts to address malnutrition and ensure that all children have access to the essential nutrients required for health growth and development.

Millers for Nutrition operates in eight countries across Africa and Asia including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Tanzania and now Ethiopia. The coalition is dedicated to supporting millers in their efforts to fortify essential food staples such as rice, edible oil and flour (wheat and maize) with vital micronutrients crucial to combating malnutrition. 

"The launch of Millers for Nutrition is a significant milestone in our battle against malnutrition in Ethiopia. It exemplifies our commitment to empowering local millers with the necessary tools and knowledge to enhance the nutritional quality of staple food through fortification. Through collaboration and innovative solutions, we aim to establish a sustainable environment where fortified foods become the norm, ensuring all Ethiopians have access to essential nutrients for a healthier future," said Eyakem Amsalu, Millers for Nutrition Program Manager, Ethiopia.

The coalition empowers millers by providing the resources and expertise to achieve and maintain high food fortification standards while improving and enhancing operational efficiencies. Through capacity-building and technical support, Millers for Nutrition aims to foster a sustainable environment where fortified foods become a standard offering in local markets.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

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