Triangle

Unearthing hidden hunger

Hidden hunger, a lack of essential micronutrients in diets, plagues millions in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. The University of Nottingham is part of an international partnership, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, tackling this global challenge.

The challenge

Millions across sub-Saharan Africa grapple with a silent threat known as hidden hunger. This condition, distinct from traditional calorie deficiency, arises from a lack of essential micronutrients in the diet. Vitamins and minerals like zinc and selenium, while required in small quantities, play a crucial role in growth, development, and overall health. Unfortunately, these vital micronutrients are often absent from staple crops like maize, the primary food source for many communities in Ethiopia and Malawi.

The consequences of hidden hunger are far-reaching. Children suffer from stunted growth and weakened immune systems, while adults experience reduced productivity and increased susceptibility to infections. This not only compromises individual well-being but also hinders development and perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

The University of Nottingham, with longstanding expertise in agricultural sciences and nutrition, is part of an international partnership, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, tackling this global challenge.  

Our response

The University of Nottingham, alongside leading research institutions in Ethiopia and Malawi, embarked on a multi-pronged approach through the GeoNutrition Project. This £4.4 million initiative, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, sought to shed light on the underlying causes of hidden hunger and explore sustainable solutions.

Here's a closer look at our contributions to the GeoNutrition Project:

  • Understanding the Baseline: A critical first step was establishing a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and regional variations of micronutrient deficiencies. Nottingham researchers, in collaboration with local partners, conducted extensive surveys and analyses to map out the specific micronutrient deficiencies affecting different communities in Ethiopia and Malawi.
  • Exploring the Roots of Deficiency: Hidden hunger often stems from a complex interplay of factors. Nottingham researchers delved deeper, investigating the role of soil quality in nutrient deficiencies. Soil analysis revealed depleted levels of essential micronutrients in some areas, contributing to their scarcity in staple crops.
  • Biofortification: A Promising Path: One of the project's major thrusts was exploring the potential of biofortification. This approach involves developing plant varieties naturally richer in essential micronutrients. Nottingham researchers, working with agricultural scientists in Ethiopia and Malawi, evaluated existing biofortified crops like zinc-enriched maize and explored opportunities for further crop improvement.
  • Sustainable Agronomic Practices: Recognising the importance of long-term solutions, the project focused on identifying sustainable agronomic practices. This involved exploring techniques like targeted fertiliser application to replenish micronutrients in depleted soils and promoting crop rotation practices to enhance soil health and nutrient availability.
  • Building Local Capacity: The GeoNutrition Project prioritised capacity building within Ethiopia and Malawi. Nottingham researchers collaborated with local scientists and extension workers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to continue research and implement effective solutions on the ground.

A brighter future for vulnerable communities

This international partnership holds immense potential to improve the lives of millions insub-Saharan Africa and south Asia:

  • Reducing hidden hunger: By identifying the causes of micronutrient deficiencies and exploring biofortification and sustainable agricultural practices, the project paves the way for a more nutritious food supply
  • Improving health and development: Combating micronutrient deficiencies can lead to improved health outcomes, particularly for children, including reduced stunting, enhanced immune function, and improved cognitive development. A healthier population, in turn, can contribute to greater social and economic development.
  • Empowering local communities: Building capacity within Ethiopia and Malawi empowers local communities to take ownership of their food security and nutritional well-being. The knowledge and skills gained through the project will benefit future generations.
  • A model for food security: Hidden hunger is a challenge across sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. This model, by raising capacity and expertise in partner countries, offers sustainable, long-term solutions in Africa and Asia.

 

Sowing hope: disover more with the hidden hunger team in Malawi

 

Louise Ander

Dr Louise Ander, of the School of Biosciences, leads the MAPS project.

Email: Louise.Ander1@nottingham.ac.uk

 06 June 2024