Maize

Maize is the staple food for Malawian people. As a whole grain, it is a good source of B vitamins. But the milling process removes the micronutrient-rich outer cover, leaving only the kernel to be ground into flour.

Malnutrition in Malawi

Most children in Malawi are malnourished. According to a 2001 study:

• 53 per cent of pre-school children have stunted growth.
• More than 60 per cent have vitamin A deficiency, which can lead to blindness.
• 80 per cent lack iron, which can harm mental and physical growth.

Access to nutritious food is inadequate, particularly in rural areas where commercial food products enriched with vitamins and minerals are unavailable.

World Vision Adds the Nutrients

World Vision has partnered with the Canadian International Development Agency and the owners of 11 mills in Malawi to add vitamins and minerals to maize flour. The mill owners fortify an estimated 800 metric tonnes of flour annually, which is enough to feed 144,000 people.

A–maize–ing Results

Children who eat the fortified flour on a regular basis have more energy. They perform better at school and miss fewer days due to illness. They are able to reach their fullest potential for growth, health, and intellectual development.