The Ministry of Health has rolled out a pilot program aimed at tackling anaemia among vulnerable populations by introducing multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) in selected districts.
The initiative, which targets adolescent girls and pregnant women, replaces the traditionally used iron and folic acid tablets with a more comprehensive formulation that includes 15 essential nutrients.
The move is expected to address a broader range of nutritional deficiencies and strengthen immune systems, particularly in high-risk groups.
Samali Namukose, Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry’s Nutrition Division, confirmed that the supplements have received approval from the World Health Organization and have already been distributed in schools to adolescent girls.
The pilot is being implemented in districts with high anaemia prevalence, including Amuru, Lamwo, and Agago in the Acholi sub-region; Masaka, Kalungu, and Lyantonde in the central region; and Amudat and Napak in the Karamoja region.
According to the Ministry, the rollout will be gradual, beginning with research and monitoring in the selected areas to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of broader implementation.
This effort is part of a larger government strategy to improve maternal and adolescent health outcomes by enhancing access to better nutrition and health interventions.
By Ben Musanje
7th May 2025
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