Strengthening maternal and child health through nutrition
Abidjan, 20 May 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 making nutrition a cornerstone of its health and social development policies. Speaking in Geneva on 19 May 2026, during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly, the minister addressed Shawn Baker, Executive Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at Helen Keller International.
The discussions centered on strengthening initiatives to improve maternal and child health, with a focus on scaling up high-impact programs for vulnerable populations. Key topics included Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing efforts in nutritional supplementation, food fortification, and combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women and young children.
National plan drives progress in nutrition
Pierre N’Gou Dimba emphasized the critical role of the National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, a government-led initiative guiding interventions to combat all forms of malnutrition. He highlighted the increasing mobilization of financial resources, supported by technical and financial partners, to enhance the country’s performance in this vital area.
New prenatal program targets micronutrient gaps
Shawn Baker commended Côte d’Ivoire’s launch of a groundbreaking 2026 program providing multiple micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women. Integrated into prenatal care packages, the initiative aims to meet nutritional needs during pregnancy, reduce anemia risks, and prevent low birth weights. Baker also praised the country’s efforts in vitamin A supplementation for children under five and community-based nutrition programs.
Côte d’Ivoire continues to reinforce its strategic partnerships to accelerate progress in nutrition, maternal and child health, and sustainable human development.
