by As we celebrate World Health Day 2024 on the theme ‘My health, my right,’ the focus is on the critical importance of good food and nutrition, particularly in regions such as Central and West Africa.
Nutrition is the cornerstone of human health, affecting all aspects of physical, cognitive and emotional well-being. In these regions, where socioeconomic gaps, environmental challenges, and different cultural norms converge, the importance of good nutrition becomes even more prominent.
This is why multinational companies like Nestlé are supporting affordable and good nutrition for families through their brands while ensuring the sustainable sourcing of raw materials such as coffee, cocoa, soy among other ingredients in their supply chain.
“Nestlé reaffirms its commitment to promoting quality and affordable nutrition, particularly in Central and West Africa. We believe that access to balanced diets, rich in essential nutrients, is critical to maintaining optimal health and wellness. Together, we strive to achieve a future where everyone has access to nutritious diets, ensuring not only physical health but also nurturing local communities and thriving societies,” says Mauricio Alarcón, CEO of Nestlé Central and West Africa .
Health Foundation
In Central and West Africa, many health challenges remain, from persistent malnutrition to an increasing incidence of non-communicable diet-related diseases. These nutritional deficiencies not only inhibit growth and physical development but also weaken immune function, cognitive abilities, and overall disease resilience.
The essential nutrients found in a balanced diet, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats, are the building blocks of health. Ensuring adequate nutrition during critical stages of life, such as pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood, is critical for optimal growth, development, and long-term health outcomes.
Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases
In recent years, the rate of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and obesity has increased in Africa. This rise reflects global trends but is fueled by particular regional dynamics. Although infectious diseases are still significant, lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, drive much of this burden.
A balanced diet is key to promoting overall health and preventing chronic disease. A balanced diet includes a diverse range of nutrient-dense foods from all food groups, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. This dietary approach not only supports physical fitness but also helps with weight management and reduces the risk of obesity and related health issues.
Access to a balanced and varied diet rich in essential nutrients is not only a basic human need, but also a prerequisite for achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health, well-being and poverty alleviation.
Empowering Communities Through Education
Empowering communities through nutrition education is a powerful tool in the fight against malnutrition. Providing information about healthy eating habits and balanced diets through initiatives in schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities can help dispel myths and empower people to make informed dietary choices.
Secure Foundations for Balanced Nutrition
Some companies, like Nestlé, recognize the importance of nutrition and quality in their product offerings. For example, Nestlé’s R&D center in Côte d’Ivoire employs food scientists and technologists dedicated to developing affordable nutrition solutions for the region. They consider local dietary preferences and nutritional needs, integrating regionally sourced grains and plant protein sources into formulations. These products are fortified with essential micronutrients such as iron, iodine, zinc, and other vitamins and minerals, ensuring optimal nutritional value.
In addition, these experts have access to Nestlé’s global network of experts, advanced analytical equipment, laboratories and pilot plants across all the company’s R&D locations.
Products like Maggi, widely recognized across the continent, are fortified with essential micronutrients such as iron and iodine, catering to local preferences and increasing nutrient intake. Similarly, Cerelac, enriched with iron, and Nido, fortified with calcium, provide vital nutrients essential for the growth and development of children.
In Nigeria, the company recently introduced Nido Milk & Soya, a product that integrates locally sourced soybeans. This initiative offers a budget-friendly option for nutritious consumption, while providing healthy nutrition among consumers.
Harnessing the Power of Collaboration
Collaborative efforts across sectors and stakeholders are needed to achieve improved nutrition in Central and West Africa. By partnering with governments, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector, we can combine resources, expertise, and innovations to drive meaningful change in the region.
Nestlé reaffirms its commitment to being a force in tackling the root causes of malnutrition, by supporting food security policies, and by empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and resources for informed dietary choices. In the long term this creates a future where everyone will have the highest standard of health and well-being.
Nestlé Ghana Limited
