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

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

This pivotal discussion centered on critical challenges in nutrition, maternal and child health, and the implementation of high-impact programs targeting the most vulnerable populations.

Key areas of focus included Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing efforts in nutritional supplementation, fortification of staple foods, and combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women and young children. The minister highlighted the National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, a government-led initiative guiding interventions to tackle malnutrition in all its forms.

Pierre N’Gou Dimba emphasized the gradual mobilization of funding to bolster the country’s progress in this domain, made possible through sustained support from technical and financial partners.

Shawn Baker commended the Ivorian government for launching, in 2026, a new multiple micronutrient supplementation program for pregnant women. Integrated into prenatal care packages, the initiative aims to address nutritional needs during pregnancy, reduce anemia risks, and prevent low birth weights.

He also praised Côte d’Ivoire’s advancements and the strong collaboration with Helen Keller International, particularly in programs such as vitamin A supplementation for children under five and community-based nutrition initiatives.

The country is actively strengthening its strategic partnerships to accelerate progress in nutrition, maternal and child health, and sustainable human development.