Posted on September, 6, 2024 at 12:28 am
Kenya is among the countries poised to benefit from a new initiative aimed at reducing global malnutrition.
The Fortified Whole Grain Alliance (FWGA) has set a goal to reach 10 million people in seven countries by 2025 with fortified whole grain solutions.
The initiative is designed to tackle global malnutrition and promote sustainable food systems that benefit people and the planet. It will support Kenya, Rwanda, Benin, Burundi, Egypt, Ghana and Nigeria.
Roy Steiner, senior vice president for food at The Rockefeller Foundation said investing in fortified whole grains means investing in the health and well-being of future generations, particularly for those in vulnerable communities.
“This initiative aligns with The Rockefeller Foundation's commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable world where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive,” Steiner said.
The FWGA was launched during the 2024 Africa Food Systems Conference Summit in Rwanda.
The alliance is a coalition of stakeholders from across the food system, including nonprofit and private sector members, dedicated to increasing the global consumption of fortified whole grains.
It is supported by The Rockefeller Foundation, the Novo Nordisk Foundation and Canada’s International Development Research Centre, in collaboration with implementing and institutional partners such as the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, whole grains retain their germ and bran, making them more nutritious. Whole grains are typically found in cereal-based products like rice, grains, pasta and bread.
Historically, whole-grain foods were widely consumed in Africa and globally until industrial milling processes led to a significant increase in refined grain products.
Source: The Star