The Regional Salt Committee (CRS) for the Boeny region has been officially established in Mahajanga. The inauguration took place last Friday at the Mahajanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, attended by National Nutrition Coordinator Fanja Rakotondrainibe, Boeny Regional Nutrition Coordinator (CRN) James Odon Randriakotomihaja, and representatives from the National Salt Committee (CNS).
“The primary mission of the Regional Salt Committee will be to raise awareness and monitor the quality of salt produced and sold to the public, particularly regarding iodine and fluoride deficiencies. The goal is to ensure that the salt consumed by the population meets required standards, protects public health, and contributes to the fight against malnutrition,” stated the Boeny Regional Nutrition Coordinator.
Led by the head of the Boeny region, the committee consists of eleven members, including representatives from the regional directorate of commerce and consumption, traders, consumers, and local salt producers. The committee was formed during a two-day workshop held on October 8th and 9th, organized by the CNS and the Boeny Regional Nutrition Committee.
This initiative follows the implementation of the May 17, 2019 decree regarding the composition and operational procedures of the national policy bodies tasked with combating iodine and fluoride deficiency disorders.
“The creation of this committee is part of the implementation of government policies aimed at promoting food security and public health. It also strengthens collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve the common goal of fighting food insecurity in the Boeny region,” emphasized the National Nutrition Coordinator.
The fight against malnutrition in the Boeny region relies on a multisectoral strategy led by the National Nutrition Office (ONN) with support from UNICEF and its partners, where the quality control of iodized salt plays a central role. Iodine is an essential micronutrient to prevent growth retardation, learning disabilities, and goiter in children. As of 2017, iodine deficiency remains a significant factor exacerbating chronic malnutrition, which affects nearly 40% of children under five nationwide.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-13 06:24:12 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/lutte-contre-la-malnutrition-boeny-le.html