Hunger is a shadow that has followed Mercy Lung’aho since her childhood. Growing up in a small village in Kenya, she witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of malnutrition on her community. This experience fueled her passion to promote nutrition as a foundation for Africa’s development.
Today, Mercy 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 dedicated her career to championing development in Africa.
Mercy’s journey towards becoming a leading advocate for nutrition in Africa began with her own personal struggles. As a child, she often went to bed hungry and saw many of her peers suffer from malnutrition. This sparked a fire within her to make a difference and ensure that no child would have to go through what she did.
After completing her education in nutrition, Mercy joined the IITA and has been at the forefront of promoting nutrition as a key component of development in Africa. She strongly believes that addressing malnutrition is crucial for the overall development of the continent.
One of the key aspects of Mercy’s work is advocating for an integrated approach to addressing malnutrition. She believes that nutrition cannot be viewed in isolation and must be integrated into all aspects of development, including agriculture, health, and education. This holistic approach is essential for achieving sustainable and long-term solutions to malnutrition.
Mercy’s work at the IITA has been instrumental in bringing together various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and local communities, to address malnutrition in Africa. Through her leadership, the Food Security, Nutrition and Health Program has implemented numerous initiatives that have had a significant impact on improving nutrition in the region.
One of the most notable initiatives is the promotion of biofortified crops, which are nutrient-rich varieties of staple crops such as maize, beans, and cassava. These crops have been developed through a process of conventional breeding and have significantly higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals. By promoting the consumption of these crops, Mercy and her team have been able to address micronutrient deficiencies in communities across Africa.
In addition to promoting biofortified crops, Mercy and her team have also focused on educating communities about the importance of a diverse and balanced diet. They have worked closely with local farmers to promote the cultivation of a variety of crops, including fruits and vegetables, to ensure a more diverse and nutritious diet for families.
Mercy’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Africa by New African Magazine. Her dedication and passion for promoting nutrition as a foundation for development have inspired many and have brought about real change in communities across Africa.
Despite the progress made, Mercy knows that there is still a long way to go. Malnutrition continues to be a significant challenge in Africa, with millions of children suffering from stunted growth and other health issues. However, she remains optimistic and is determined to continue her work until every child in Africa has access to proper nutrition.
In conclusion, Mercy Lung’aho’s journey from a hungry child to a leading advocate for nutrition in Africa is a testament to the power of determination and passion. Her work at the IITA has had a significant impact on improving the lives of millions of people, and her efforts continue to inspire others to join the fight against malnutrition. As she continues to champion development in Africa, Mercy’s hunger for change remains unwavering, and her dedication to promoting nutrition as a foundation for development is truly commendable.
