Addressing malnutrition in Ethiopia requires more than awareness. It demands systems that deliver results at scale. A new agreement between the YADAM Foundation and Sanku Food Fortification Ethiopia PLC is built on this principle, combining advocacy, innovation and local capacity to improve access to essential nutrients. The partnership is expected to play a key role in reducing hidden hunger while strengthening the foundation for long-term human development and economic stability.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on April 14, 2026, at the YADAM Foundation headquarters in Addis Ababa. The ceremony was led by H.E. Demeke Mekonnen, Board Chairperson of YADAM Foundation and former Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, alongside Mark Ocitti Ongom, President of Sanku. The partnership brings together policy leadership and advanced technology to address one of the country’s most pressing challenges.
At the center of this collaboration is the fight against micronutrient deficiencies, often referred to as hidden hunger. These deficiencies affect millions of people and limit physical and cognitive development, especially among children. By combining YADAM’s advocacy work with Sanku’s food fortification technology, the initiative aims to deliver practical and scalable solutions that reach households across the country.
Driving Sustainable Nutrition Solutions
The partnership will focus on expanding large-scale food fortification to ensure that staple foods contain essential vitamins and minerals. This approach is designed to make nutritious food more accessible and affordable for everyday consumers.
In addition, the initiative will strengthen local milling systems by introducing innovation and supporting the development of premix manufacturing within Ethiopia. This is expected to build local capacity while creating a more resilient food system.
Public awareness will also play a key role. The two organisations plan to roll out targeted campaigns to educate communities on the importance of fortified foods and how they contribute to healthier lives. Beyond national impact, the partnership is also positioning Ethiopia as a leader in nutrition innovation across Africa.
A Long-Term Vision for Human Development
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to improving nutrition during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, a critical period for growth and development. Ensuring access to essential nutrients during this stage can have lasting effects on education outcomes, productivity and overall quality of life.
The YADAM Foundation, established in May 2024 by H.E. Demeke Mekonnen, was created to tackle malnutrition through policy advocacy, research and community-driven solutions. It views nutrition as a key driver of human development and economic progress across Africa.
Sanku brings a proven model that works directly with small flour mills to add vital nutrients to everyday food. Its technology simplifies the fortification process while ensuring that costs do not increase for millers or consumers. The organisation has received global recognition from institutions including the Rolex Awards for Enterprise, the Zayed Sustainability Prize, Time Magazine and the New York Times. It is also working toward reaching 100 million people in East Africa by 2030, a target expected to prevent millions of deaths and illnesses while boosting productivity and saving billions in GDP.
Together, the two organisations are not only addressing immediate nutritional needs but also building a foundation for a healthier, more productive population.
