Abidjan, May 20, 2026 – Pierre N’Gou Dimba, the Ivorian Minister of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage, recently reiterated Côte d’Ivoire’s unwavering dedication to embedding nutrition as a fundamental pillar within its national health and social development framework. This significant declaration was made on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Geneva, during a high-level meeting with Shawn Baker, Executive Vice President for 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 collaboration and exchanging insights concerning critical issues like nutrition, maternal and child health, and the strategic development of high-impact programs designed to benefit the nation’s most vulnerable populations.

Among the key topics addressed were Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing efforts in nutritional supplementation, the fortification of widely consumed food products, and the proactive fight against anemia and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among expectant mothers and young children.

Minister Pierre N’Gou Dimba highlighted the comprehensive National Multisectoral Nutrition Plan, which serves as the government’s guiding document in its battle against all forms of malnutrition. He underscored the progressive mobilization of financial resources, facilitated by the support of technical and financial partners, aimed at bolstering the country’s performance in this vital sector.

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 specifically for pregnant women. This initiative, integrated into antenatal care packages, is designed to meet nutritional demands during pregnancy, mitigate anemia risks, and contribute to preventing low birth weights.

Furthermore, Baker lauded Côte d’Ivoire’s notable advancements and the exemplary quality of its collaboration with Helen Keller International, particularly in successful programs such as vitamin A supplementation for children under five years old and various community nutrition initiatives.

It is evident that Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing the consolidation of its strategic partnerships, striving to accelerate progress in nutrition, maternal and child health, and ultimately, sustainable human development.