Addis Ababa, December 16, 2024 (FMC) – Yadam Foundation, established by former Ethiopian Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen, was officially launched today with the attendance of senior government officials, representatives from international organizations, and various partners.
In his introductory remarks, Demeke Mekonnen emphasized the foundation’s mission to address stunting and malnutrition across Africa. He highlighted that better nutrition is critical for human capital development, economic growth, and a healthier future for the continent.
He expressed his commitment to utilizing Ethiopia’s successful strategies in implementing the Sekota Declaration and other national initiatives aimed at combating malnutrition, aiming to create a lasting impact for future generations.
Demeke pointed out that the foundation will bolster national efforts by supporting various initiatives, including the food and nutrition strategy, the food system transformation program, the Bounty of Basket, and urban agriculture projects, all aimed at enhancing the nutrition landscape and fostering a healthier, more capable generation.
He also outlined the foundation’s objectives to increase access to and consumption of nutritious foods, implement programs focused on nutrition, and improve water, sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition environments in schools.
In stressing the foundation’s role in advancing Africa’s Agenda 2063, Demeke pledged to advocate for enhanced leadership and governance around nutrition on the continent to cultivate a healthier and more innovative society.
Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba expressed her optimism about the foundation’s potential to strengthen Ethiopia’s efforts in placing nutrition at the forefront of the continent’s agenda and inspiring global action against malnutrition. She noted that Ethiopia has been actively engaging in national initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, such as the Bounty of Basket and urban agriculture programs. Dr. Mekdes underscored the significance of the Yadam Foundation in supporting these endeavors and sharing Ethiopia’s successful experiences as a regional leader in nutrition improvement. She also reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s support for the foundation’s initiatives in line with ongoing national efforts to combat malnutrition and stunting, aiming to foster a healthier and more competitive future for Ethiopia and the continent at large.