PRESS RELEASE: Fortified Whole Grain Alliance sets new ambitious target to combat malnutrition, drive sustainable food systems

During the 2024 Africa Food Systems Conference Summit, hosted by the Government of Rwanda and the AFS Forum Partner’s group, the Fortified Whole Grain Alliance (FWGA) launched a new ambitious goal of reaching 10 million people across seven countries by 2025 with fortified whole grains (FWGs) solutions: Benin, Burundi, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda. A coalition of stakeholders from across the food system, FWGA is supported by The Rockefeller Foundation, Novo Nordisk Foundation, and Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), in collaboration with core, implementing, and institutional partners such as the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), DSM-Firmenich, Boston Consulting Group, and others. This latest effort advances the Alliance’s long-term vision of catalysing a significant shift in consumption patterns of FWGs to tackle global malnutrition and promote more sustainable food systems for people and the planet.

Measurable impact, lasting change

With active initiatives underway in Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi, focusing on fortified whole-grain maize, expansion plans included at least three West African nations (Ghana, Nigeria, and Benin) concentrating on parboiled unpolished rice and North Africa (Egypt), where efforts would focus on whole wheat flour. The FWGA also set a target of at least 50% of grain foods in institutional markets and 25% in consumer markets within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to be fortified whole grain by 2032.

Fortified whole grains: A sustainable solution

Shifting from refined grains to FWGs offers a multitude of benefits. They can significantly improve dietary quality without increasing production costs. Fortified whole grains offer six to seven times more nutritional value than their refined counterparts, providing higher protein, fibre, and essential micronutrients. In addition, this transition supports environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions as FWGs require less water, land, fertilisers, and pesticides.

Quotes from key speakers

• Hon. Jean Claude Musabyimana, Ministry of Local Government for the Government of Rwanda: “Together, we are more than just a coalition; we are a beacon of hope, a testament to what we can achieve when governments, the private sector, nonprofits, and communities come together with a shared vision. By working together, we can create a future where fortified whole grains are a staple in every household, ensuring the health and well-being of future generations.”
• Roy Steiner, Senior Vice President for Food, The Rockefeller Foundation: “The Fortified Whole Grain Alliance is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. By investing in fortified whole grains, we are investing in the health and well-being of future generations – especially people living in vulnerable communities. This initiative aligns with The Rockefeller Foundation’s commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable world where everyone, no matter their circumstances, can thrive.”
• Lawrence Haddad, Executive Director, GAIN: “GAIN is excited to be a part of the Fortified Whole Grain Alliance. This initiative has the potential to significantly impact global nutrition, especially if we focus on public procurement. By increasing the availability of fortified whole grains, we can improve the health of millions of people while benefiting the environment.”

Join the movement for a healthier future

The launch of the FWGA signifies a pivotal moment in the global fight against malnutrition and the promotion of sustainable food systems. Learn more about the Alliance, its mission, and how you can be a part of this transformative movement by visiting the FWGA website: FWGA - Fortified Whole Grain Alliance.

ABOUT the Fortified Whole Grain Alliance (FWGA)

The Fortified Whole Grain Alliance (FWGA) is a coalition of stakeholders that span across the food system, including nonprofit and private sector members, and is committed to increasing the global consumption of fortified whole grains (FWG). It is committed to delivering its stated mission, purpose, and vision by bringing together the collective expertise, resources, operations, funding, visibility, and convening power of its members.

Together, we can cultivate a future where healthy diets and a thriving planet go hand-in-hand.

Source: The New Times