The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Thursday launched a new platform to improve food security, safety and nutrition.
The new Consumer Food Safety Evidence and Learning Platform, Evidence and Action Towards Safe, Nutritious Food (EatSafe) will receive a $6 million funding, part of the five-country $31.5 million cooperative agreement awarded to to Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).
GAIN is a non-profit foundation operating in Nigeria since 2012.
The northwestern state of Kebbi has been chosen as the place where the activity will be implemented. Kebbi has the highest incidence of malnutrition in the country, USAID said.
“The Kebbi portion of the activity is funded at $3.5 million,” a statement by USAID read.
“EatSafe will build off GAIN’s established relationships with informal Nigerian markets selling nutritious foods to strengthen the voice of vendors and consumers in the pandemic response and recovery.
“A series of rapid assessments of market resilience will help ensure Kebbi can adapt to pandemic shocks and ensure the availability of safe and nutritious foods to its people,” the agency added.
Colin Dreizin, the Director of USAIDS’s Office of Economic Growth and Environment, explained that the agency recognised the importance of food security and remained a crucial part of improving nutrition for a “healthy, productive and resilient Nigeria.”
“EatSafe will explore innovative ways to engage stakeholders, including the private sector, to improve food safety and nutrition security. Ensuring safe and nutritious food for all is one of the key public health and social challenges of our time,” Dreizin said.
The US Global Food Security Strategy for Nigeria’s objective is in accord of a well-nourished population, especially among women and children, he said.
“EatSafe will help foster a healthier population in Nigeria and help guarantee safe and nutritious foods for their families,” USAID added.
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