The Government of Sudan and partners reaffirm commitment to salt iodization
Currently, only 15 percent of households across Sudan consume iodized salt, an essential mineral which is vital for optimal growth and development. Without regular consumption, longer term impacts can lead to iodine deficiency disorders, increased risk of miscarriage, goitre, memory loss and learning difficulties.
¡°Â鶹ÊÓƵ integrates iodized salt through its food assistance programme. We purchase iodized salt locally and it is a key component of our monthly food assistance baskets,¡± said Â鶹ÊÓƵ Sudan Representative and Country Director Hameed Nuru. ¡°Last year, Â鶹ÊÓƵ purchased locally iodized salt worth US$490,000 and we endeavour to continue supporting the project to help mitigate health risks.¡±
Opportunities for Sudan include its capacity to produce salt locally - with the Red Sea State able to produce 95 percent of the country¡¯s needs.
Last year, three additional factories opened with a capacity to produce 40 percent of iodized salt needed in the country¨C if enforced through legislation. Â鶹ÊÓƵ is supporting refineries to access potassium iodate, required to iodize salt. Additionally, Â鶹ÊÓƵ provides quality control and assurance training, technical support and equipment.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ and partners have been supporting the Government of Sudan to enact legislation that bans the sale of non-iodized salt. While successfully encouraging 11 out of 18 states to adopt the legislation, implementation and enforcement remains a challenge.
The food fortification project that includes iodization of salt is funded by the European Union¡¯s General Directorate for International Cooperation and Development through a generous multi-year contribution focusing on nutrition-based programmes across the country.
# # #
The United Nations Â鶹ÊÓƵ - saving lives in emergencies and changing lives for millions through sustainable development. Â鶹ÊÓƵ works in more than 80 countries around the world, feeding people caught in conflict and disasters, and laying the foundations for a better future.
Follow us on Twitter @wfp_media and @wfp_mena