Abidjan – Pierre N’Gou Dimba, the Minister of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage, recently reiterated Côte d’Ivoire’s profound dedication to embedding nutrition as a fundamental pillar within its national health and social development strategies. This significant declaration came on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Geneva, during a meeting with Shawn Baker, Executive Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at Helen Keller International, held on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly.
The discussions during this crucial encounter centered on deepening dialogue surrounding key issues in nutrition, maternal and child health, and the expansion of high-impact programs specifically designed to benefit the nation’s most vulnerable communities.
Among the vital topics explored were Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing efforts in nutritional supplementation, the fortification of widely consumed food products, and robust campaigns aimed at combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies prevalent among pregnant women and young children.
Minister Pierre N’Gou Dimba highlighted the National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, which serves as the guiding framework for government interventions against all forms of malnutrition. He underscored the progressive mobilization of financial resources, facilitated by technical and financial partners, to bolster the country’s performance in this critical area.
For his part, Shawn Baker of the global NGO Helen Keller International expressed commendation for the Ivorian government’s launch in 2026 of a new multiple micronutrient supplementation program for expectant mothers. This innovative initiative, seamlessly integrated into prenatal care packages, is designed to meet the unique nutritional demands of pregnancy, significantly reduce the risks of anemia, and contribute to the prevention of low birth weight.
Furthermore, Baker lauded the substantial advancements made by Côte d’Ivoire and praised the exemplary collaboration with Helen Keller International. He specifically acknowledged the success of programs focused on Vitamin A supplementation for children under five and various community-based nutrition initiatives.
It is evident that Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing a dynamic strategy to strengthen its strategic partnerships, aiming to accelerate progress in nutrition, maternal and child health, and foster sustainable human development across the nation.