FAO.org

Despite its enormous potential, West Africa continues to suffer from high levels of food insecurity, with an estimated 11 percent of its population suffering from undernourishment or chronic hunger. With stunting, wasting, underweight and micronutrient deficiencies (such as vitamin A, iron and iodine deficiencies) affecting the most vulnerable groups, in particular children aged under five and women in reproductive age, a number of initiatives were adopted and projects implemented in the region. However, there has been insufficient coordination of these initiatives and projects, despite the fact that they target similar geographical areas and beneficiary populations. In addition, the Right to Food has not been adequately promoted in the region, despite being a fundamental pillar in attaining the Zero Hunger target. In response to a request from the Economic Community of West African States, the project aimed to help government and non-government partners to collaborate more strongly and increase their efforts towards the eradication of hunger and malnutrition in West Africa.