Côte d’Ivoire prioritizes nutrition in maternal and child health strategy

Abidjan, May 20, 2026 — Pierre N’Gou Dimba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage, has underscored the nation’s commitment to positioning nutrition as a cornerstone of its health and social development agenda. The announcement came during a high-level meeting with Shawn Baker, Executive Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at Helen Keller International, held on May 19 in Geneva, on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly.

During the discussions, both leaders examined pressing challenges in maternal and child health, with a sharp focus on strengthening nutrition programs that deliver measurable impact for vulnerable communities. Key initiatives highlighted included Côte d’Ivoire’s national strategies for nutritional supplementation, food fortification of staple products, and targeted interventions to combat anemia and micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women and young children.

The minister emphasized the critical role of the National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, which serves as the blueprint for government efforts to eradicate all forms of malnutrition. He also outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to mobilize domestic and international funding—supported by technical and financial partners—to enhance implementation and outcomes in this vital sector.

Shawn Baker commended Côte d’Ivoire’s recent advancements, particularly the 2026 launch of a new multiple micronutrient supplementation program for pregnant women. This initiative, integrated into prenatal care packages, aims to address nutritional gaps during pregnancy, reduce anemia risks, and prevent low birth weights. He further praised the country’s progress and the strength of its collaboration with Helen Keller International, notably in vitamin A supplementation programs for children under five and community-based nutrition interventions.

With a continued push to solidify strategic partnerships, Côte d’Ivoire is accelerating its progress toward improving nutrition, maternal and child health, and sustainable human development across the country.