Somalia National Food Fortification Strategic Plan 2019-2024.

The Somalia National Food Fortification Strategic Plan 2019-2024 establishes a national strategic policy framework aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiencies in Somalia through the promotion and implementation of food fortification. It is grounded in the recognition that malnutrition, particularly deficiencies in essential micronutrients such as iron, vitamin A, zinc and folate, constitutes a major public health challenge linked to food insecurity, limited dietary diversity and weak institutional and regulatory systems. The Strategy articulates the objective of improving the nutritional status of the population as a means of supporting socio‑economic development, while acknowledging the structural constraints affecting the food system, including low agricultural productivity, limited industrial capacity and the absence of comprehensive food safety and fortification standards. The strategy sets out a structured framework comprising a national goal, strategic objectives and priority intervention areas focused on creating an enabling policy and regulatory environment, expanding food processing and fortification capacity, strengthening institutional and technical capacity, and increasing consumer awareness and demand for fortified foods. It promotes the development and enforcement of standards and legislation governing food fortification, the promotion of public‑private partnerships to support the production and distribution of fortified foods, and the integration of fortification measures into broader nutrition, agriculture and health policies. Particular emphasis is placed on the identification of appropriate food vehicles, such as cereals and cooking oils, and on ensuring access for both urban and rural populations, including those reliant on locally produced food.