Hunger and malnutrition have been long-standing issues in Africa, affecting millions of people and hindering the continent’s development. For Mercy Lung’aho, these challenges hit close to home and have fueled her passion for promoting nutrition as a foundation for Africa’s growth.
Growing up in a small village in Western Kenya, Mercy Lung’aho experienced the devastating effects of hunger firsthand. She saw her family and community struggle to put food on the table, and she witnessed the physical and mental toll it took on those who were malnourished. This experience left a lasting impression on Mercy and sparked her determination to make a difference.
Today, Mercy Lung’aho is the lead for the Food Security, Nutrition, and Health Program at the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA). With over 20 years of experience as a certified nutritionist and researcher, she has become a leading voice in the fight against hunger and malnutrition in Africa.
Mercy’s work at IITA focuses on promoting an integrated approach to addressing food security, nutrition, and health in Africa. She believes that these three elements are interconnected and must be addressed together to achieve sustainable development. “You cannot have a healthy population without addressing their food and nutrition needs,” she says.
One of the key initiatives Mercy is championing is the promotion of biofortified crops. These are crops that have been bred to contain higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin A. By incorporating these crops into their diets, communities can improve their nutrition and overall health.
Mercy’s team at IITA has been working closely with farmers to introduce and promote biofortified crops, such as iron beans, vitamin A maize, and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. They have also been educating communities on the importance of a diverse and balanced diet, as well as the benefits of consuming these nutrient-rich crops.
But Mercy’s work goes beyond just promoting biofortified crops. She is also a strong advocate for empowering women and girls, who are often the most affected by malnutrition. “When women are empowered, they can make better decisions for their families’ health and nutrition,” she explains.
Through her research and advocacy, Mercy has been able to bring attention to the issue of malnutrition in Africa and the need for a holistic approach to addressing it. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, and she has received numerous awards and recognition for her work, including the 2019 Africa Food Prize.
Mercy’s dedication and passion for promoting nutrition as a foundation for Africa’s development have inspired many, including her colleagues and the communities she works with. “I believe that through our collective efforts, we can achieve a continent where no child goes to bed hungry and every person has access to nutritious food,” she says.
As we continue to face global challenges such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercy’s work has become even more critical. The pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of food systems and the need for a sustainable and resilient approach to food security and nutrition.
Mercy’s vision for a healthier and more prosperous Africa is within reach, and her tireless efforts are bringing us one step closer to achieving it. With her expertise and determination, she is making a significant impact in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, and her work will continue to shape the future of the continent.
In conclusion, Mercy Lung’aho’s childhood experiences may have been shadowed by hunger, but they have also fueled her determination to make a difference. As a certified nutritionist and researcher, she is leading the way in promoting nutrition as a foundation for Africa’s development. Through her work at IITA, she is advocating for an integrated approach that addresses food security, nutrition, and health, and her efforts are bringing us closer to a healthier and more prosperous Africa.
