Overview

Food insecurity in Africa threatens the lives of millions of vulnerable people especially displaced persons and people living with HIV/AIDS. Undernutrition is directly or indirectly responsible for 3.5 million child death every year, and at least 35% of the disease burden in under-5 year old children. Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest prevalence of low birth weight ranging from 7-42%. Exclusive breastfeeding rate is low and complementary foods are inadequate and inappropriate in the region. Maternal nutrition increases the risk of death of the mother at birth and may be associated with about 20% of maternal deaths. The year 2008 recorded an unprecedented incidence of foodborne diseases in the African Region including; anthrax in Zimbabwe; typhoid fever in Uganda; chemical poisoning due to consumption of seed beans and maize in Nigeria and Kenya; cholera from several countries e.g. Mozambique, Nigeria, Congo, Zambia, DRC, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Zimbabwe; pesticide poisoning from cabbage and other vegetables in Senegal; fish mouse in Mauritius; mushroom poisoning in Algeria; Botulism and Hepatitis A in Uganda; Gala Night Dinner Meal, Nigeria.

Taking guidance from Resolution AFR/RC57/R4 on food safety and various plans and resolutions in nutrition, activities concentrate on strengthening capacities for food safety and nutrition; enhancing effective participation of countries in the Codex Alimentarius Commission; developing food safety legislation and strategies; strengthening national food safety information, education and communication programmes. AFRO supported Member States through the provision of strategies, norms, standards and technical guidance to countries to develop and implement national policies and plans in nutrition and food safety including infant and young child feeding (IYCF).

Programme Manager

Dr Patience Mensah
Tel.: +47241 39775
Fax: +47 241 39503
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