Rwanda grapples with micronutrient malnutrition, including iodine |
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In Rwanda, a country whose challenges continue to be daunting, there are hopeful signs of action to break the vicious cycle imposed by micronutrient malnutrition, allAfrica.com reports.
The Executive Secretary, Dr. Agnes Binagwaho, of the Rwanda National AIDS control Commission explains that over the next year Rwanda is faced with the unique opportunity to fundamentally changing the health status of its population.
"Throughout the world, health experts have learned to appreciate the role of micronutrients in preventative health, yet we currently have no program in place to address this need - but this is all about to change," says Binagwaho.
She further says that micronutrients, another way to refer to vitamins and minerals, are vital to one's health, yet not easily obtained in Rwanda where the diet of most of our population is poor in vegetables, fruits, and meat.
"Even in places where diets are rich in these foods, it can still be difficult, especially for women and children, to consume adequate levels.
That is why the Ministry of Health and the Parliament are currently considering a program that will fortify basic staple foods like salt, cassava, sorghum, and wheat, with these vital micronutrients," she explains.
"While food fortification may cost as little as 100 RWF per person per year, consider the impact. Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of mental retardation in the world and in less severe cases reduces acumen by about 15%," says Binagwaho.
"While we work to build schools, train teachers, and create a new economy for Rwanda, we should also address this very simple way to improve the intellectual capacity of our people," she continues.
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