Malnutrition and food insecurity are significant challenges for many communities in Africa, and we need innovative solutions to address this pressing issue.
The nutritional situation in various regions of the African continent is complex. According to World Bank reports many children in the country suffer from stunted growth and anemia due to poor nutrition.
As a result, food manufacturing businesses in Africa must take responsibility by providing products with essential nutrients to help combat nutritional deficiencies in the population.
Meeting the population’s nutritional needs
Affordability is a critical factor in the fight against malnutrition and food insecurity.
For many communities, the cost of nutritious food is a barrier to achieving a balanced diet.
In Central and West Africa, NESTLÉ aims to provide children and adults alike with the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.
“In 2022, Nestlé served consumers in our region with 89.5 billion servings of products fortified with at least one of the 4 main micronutrients we are deficient in (Iron, Iodine, Zinc, Vitamin A), to help them address the micronutrient deficiency gaps, particularly, iron deficiency.
‘’Our recent introduction of NIDO Milk & Soya in Nigeria is part of the company’s commitment to making better nutrition affordable and accessible across the region.
‘’This shows how affordability can be integrated into nutritional solutions, ensuring that essential nutrients are within reach for all, regardless of socioeconomic status, – Salomé Azevedo, Business Executive Officer – Dairy, NESTLÉ Central & West Africa”.
Recognising that accessibility also influences affordability, NESTLÉ uses locally sourced soybeans for the manufacturing of NIDO Milk & Soya in Nigeria. In this way, the company does not only support local agriculture but also ensures that the product is readily available to consumers in the region.
This localised approach to production and sourcing reduces transportation costs, lowering the price of the product for the end consumer.
A sustainable solution
Sustainability is at the heart of NESTLÉ’s operations. Supporting Nigerian farmers not only provides them with a steady source of income but also reduces the environmental impact of dairy production.
As NESTLÉ strives to meet its global target of reducing emissions by 20% by 2025, initiatives like these demonstrate that it is possible to achieve nutritional goals while remaining a responsible corporate citizen.
