Côte d’Ivoire solidifies nutrition as a cornerstone of public health policy

Abidjan, May 20, 2026 – Pierre N’Gou Dimba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage, recently underscored the nation’s unwavering dedication to integrating nutrition as a fundamental element within its broader health and social development framework. This significant declaration came during a meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Geneva, where the Minister held an audience with Shawn Baker, Executive Vice President for Programs and Partnerships at Helen Keller International, on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly.

The discussions during this pivotal gathering centered on intensifying collaboration and dialogue concerning critical issues surrounding nutrition, maternal and child health, and the strategic expansion of high-impact programs designed to benefit the most vulnerable segments of the population.

Key areas of focus included Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing initiatives in nutritional supplementation, the fortification of widely consumed food products, and robust campaigns aimed at combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among pregnant women and young children.

Minister Pierre N’Gou Dimba highlighted the comprehensive National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, which serves as the guiding blueprint for the government’s efforts to tackle all manifestations of malnutrition. He emphasized the systematic mobilization of financial resources, progressively channeled to bolster the country’s achievements in this vital sector, a process significantly aided by technical and financial partners.

Shawn Baker of the global NGO Helen Keller International expressed commendation for the Ivorian government’s launch earlier in 2026 of a new multiple micronutrient supplementation program specifically for pregnant women. This program, seamlessly integrated into the existing prenatal care package, is designed to address nutritional needs throughout pregnancy, mitigate the risks of anemia, and contribute to the prevention of low birth weight.

Furthermore, Baker applauded Côte d’Ivoire’s demonstrable progress and the exemplary quality of its partnership with Helen Keller International. He specifically acknowledged successful programs involving Vitamin A supplementation for children under five years old and various community-based nutrition initiatives.

Notably, Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing the reinforcement of its strategic partnerships. This proactive approach aims to accelerate advancements in nutrition, enhance maternal and child health outcomes, and foster sustainable human development across the nation.