The Government of Malawi, in collaboration with UNICEF and the National Planning Commission, on 23 April 2025 launched the First Foods Africa Initiative Malawi—a bold, multisectoral approach aimed at addressing child food poverty and stunting by working closely with development partners, academia, including LUANAR, and the private sector.

Speaking at the launch in Lilongwe, Deputy Minister of Health, Hon. Noah Chimpeni, MP., said the initiative focuses on improving the quality of food consumed by children during their first six months which is a critical window for healthy growth and development.

“As a country, we continue to face the challenge of stunted growth among children. This initiative will help reduce that burden by ensuring nutritious foods are available and accessible. It’s not just the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, but also Trade and Agriculture. We are calling on the private sector to play their part by producing child-friendly, nutrient-dense foods,” said Hon. Chimpeni.

Unlike previous interventions, the new initiative introduces financial incentives such as low-interest loans to food producers. Hon. Chimpeni said this move is expected to encourage local manufacturers to prioritize child nutrition.

UNICEF’s Chief of Nutrition, Charity Zvandaziva, emphasized the urgent need to transform food systems across the continent, noting that many children are still consuming poor-quality diets.

“Food systems have failed children. Many are eating food that is unhealthy and not nutritious due to poor food environments and limited awareness. The First Foods Africa Initiative goes beyond governments. It engages the private sector and communities to promote healthy, affordable and accessible foods,” she said. “We’re also focusing on behaviour change—urging families to prioritize feeding their children the nutritious foods they grow themselves.”

She also highlighted the importance of food preservation, especially for seasonal crops. “Communities will be supported with training on how to preserve foods like mangoes so that they’re available year-round,” Zvandaziva added.

Representing LUANAR at the launch, Dean of Faculty of Food and Human Sciences at LUANAR, Dr. Tina Manani took part in a panel discussion, where she shared the university’s work in child nutrition and food processing. “At LUANAR, we are using research and innovation to create practical solutions that communities can adopt. From nutrient-rich porridge recipes to low-cost preservation methods, we’re supporting efforts to ensure children get the right foods at the right time,” she said.

LUANAR’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to agricultural innovation and community development, especially in the areas of nutrition, food security, and child health.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry also expressed strong support. Clement Phangaphanga, Director of Industry, said the initiative builds on existing frameworks such as the National Fortification Alliance, which has promoted vitamin A fortification in staple foods like sugar, oil, and flour.

“We now want to take it further by encouraging foods fortified with other essential micronutrients, such as zinc, which remains low in many food items currently available,” said Phangaphanga. He acknowledged the challenge of high food prices but highlighted ongoing community-level efforts promoting affordable, locally processed foods.

The two-day event, held under the theme “Localising Food Solutions for Addressing Child Food Poverty in Malawi,” brought together representatives from government, the private sector, development agencies, and academia. Malawi is one of 13 African countries participating in the First Foods Africa Initiative, alongside Kenya, Ethiopia, and Zambia.