Implementing Large-scale Food Fortification in Tanzania: Lessons Learned.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The main objective is to identify achievements, challenges and lessons learned in implementing large scale food fortification in Tanzania for the benefit of other countries attempting to initiate national mandatory fortification of staple foods Methods: Lessons learned were drawn from fortification program documents and interviews with fortification stakeholders. The lessons learned cover the key components of fortification programs, including production, distribution, quality control and enforcement, standards setting, legislation, social marketing and communication, monitoring and evaluation. A food rapid assessment tool (FRAT) survey was conducted to determine appropriate staple food vehicles for fortification. Results: The FRAT survey identified wheat flour, maize meal, and vegetable oil as appropriate fortification vehicles. It was estimated that 23 million could be reached with both fortified vegetable oil and wheat flour. Political will and commitment especially at highest level of leadership was critical in engendering support for fortification from both the public and private sector. Furthermore, establishment of a local premix distribution hub in Tanzania has ensured regular availability of premix. Importantly, Tanzania exonerated the purchase of premix from taxes, a model for east Africa. Conclusions: Through mandatory legislation and enabling political environment Tanzania has successfully launched and scaled up fortification of vegetable oil and wheat flour.