Rwanda reached a very important milestone this month by setting comprehensive fortification levels for six primary staple foods, and covering nine essential micronutrients. Following a series of National Fortification Alliance meetings called by the Ministry of Health and spearheaded by regional fortification experts hired by PHC, fortification levels were established using Rwanda-specific consumption and coverage data previously collected by PHC. The process took into consideration Rwanda’s import and export partners, creating a comprehensive and harmonized approach to fortification.
The foods targeted for fortification include: salt, oil, sugar, maize flour, and wheat flour and the micronutrients include: vitamin A, iodine, iron, zinc, folic acid, niacin, and vitamin B1, B2, and B12. Together, this strategy creates a broad and comprehensive fortification plan that will be as complete as any country in Africa.
Over 22,000 children die every day from preventable causes, of which malnutrition is the most prevalent and easily solved. This milestone demonstrates the enduring commitment of the Rwandan Government to ensure fortification becomes a reality as a means of addressing the nation’s high rates of vitamin and mineral deficiency saving millions of lives and millions of dollars.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact us at info@projecthealthychildren.org.