The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a significant step towards improving public health and nutrition across the region by reviewing and validating revised standards for fortified foods.
At a two-day meeting held in Praia, Cape Verde, on July 28–29, the ECOWAS Technical Committee for Standards Management (TMC) focused on the adoption of updated regional norms for essential fortified products such as iodized salt, vegetable oils, and wheat flour. The session was supported by UNICEF, in line with ongoing efforts to combat malnutrition in West Africa under the Common Industrial Policy (PICAO) and the ECOSHAM harmonization model.
In addition to technical deliberations on fortified food standards, the committee approved the reorganization of several sector-specific technical subcommittees, aiming to streamline standard-setting processes and strengthen institutional frameworks.
Speaking during the meeting, ECOWAS Director of Industry, Lassané Kaboré, highlighted the strategic relevance of harmonized food standards, noting their critical role in enhancing public health, ensuring food safety, and supporting the regional economy.
UNICEF reaffirmed its continued commitment to improving child nutrition across the region, emphasizing that food fortification remains a vital intervention in addressing vitamin and mineral deficiencies among vulnerable populations.
The gathering was hailed by participants and partners as a major milestone towards building a resilient and nutrition-sensitive food system in West Africa—ensuring that fortified foods are not only accessible but also regulated according to internationally recognized standards.
