ADDIS ABABA – The YADAM Foundation has the potential to position nutrition at the forefront of Africa’s agenda and inspire global action against malnutrition, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH).
Health Minister Mekdes Daba (MD) noted that the foundation’s primary goal is to combat malnutrition and stunting, aiming to build a healthier and more competitive future for Ethiopia and the broader continent.
She also indicated that Ethiopia has been actively engaged in national initiatives, such as the Bounty of Basket and urban farming programs. The YADAM Foundation will play a significant role in supporting these efforts and sharing Ethiopia’s successful experiences as a regional leader in nutrition improvement.
Mekdes reaffirmed MoH’s commitment to supporting the foundation’s initiatives, which align with ongoing national efforts to tackle malnutrition and stunting in Ethiopia and across Africa.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen, officially introduced the YADAM Foundation on Monday with the goal of eradicating child stunting across Africa.
The foundation seeks to address malnutrition, one of the continent’s most pressing challenges, through innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions. Demeke emphasized that this initiative marks a critical step forward in confronting the issue. He also stated that the first 1,000 days of life are crucial for cognitive and physical development, reaffirming the commitment to combat under-nutrition.
“Malnutrition is everyone’s problem, but solving stunting requires a strong sector that functions effectively. Let us make it a national agenda and then expand it into the African agenda to create competent youth who can influence the world,” Demeke stated.
The former deputy premier further emphasized that nutrition is a key element of human development. “Child nutrition is a fundamental aspect of our development agenda. It is vital for fostering a healthier, more productive society, and for enhancing human cognitive and intellectual capacity.”
Demeke concluded by stating, “The YADAM Foundation aspires to rank among Africa’s top five initiatives by 2035, contributing to the continent’s prosperity through comprehensive, holistic strategies that combat malnutrition and drive societal progress.”
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER 2024
