In a significant advancement for public health, the Government of Sri Lanka has announced that the nation now has the capacity to produce fortified rice kernels. These kernels are enriched with essential nutrients, specifically folic acid and iron, through an extrusion process, resulting in nutrient-rich grains that can be blended with regular rice to produce fortified rice.
Addressing an Urgent Priority
This initiative comes as a direct response to the severe food insecurity and malnutrition exacerbated by the recent economic crisis. The urgency of this project was underscored by Sagala Ratnayaka, Chief of Staff to the President, highlighting the Presidential Secretariat’s commitment to tackling these critical issues.
The fortified rice is set to play a crucial role in combating micronutrient malnutrition, with the enriched kernels being distributed through the government’s National Free School Meal Program.
International Collaboration and Support
The development and implementation of the extrusion technology necessary for this initiative were prioritized by the Presidential Secretariat. This was made possible through collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), the Program for Appropriate Technology and Health (PATH), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Akshata, and Connect To Care.
To celebrate the launch of this new capability, the Presidential Secretariat Support Unit, supported by Connect To Care and PATH, organized a workshop at the Galle Face Hotel. The event brought together key stakeholders from the government, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society to discuss the benefits of staple food fortification and the potential for further technological transfers through collaborative efforts.
Workshop Highlights
Locally-Produced Fortified Rice Kernels
Grains n Green, the private sector partner for the Gates Foundation Rice Fortification Project, is pioneering this initiative. As the first producer of fortified rice kernels in Sri Lanka, Grains n Green’s investment is set to significantly benefit the National School Meal Programme, ensuring that children receive the essential nutrients needed for their growth and development.
National Free School Meal Program
Under the National Free School Meal Program, children enrolled in Grades 1 to 5 at selected schools receive a nutritious and balanced meal at no cost. Currently, the Education Ministry, in collaboration with the WFP, provides meals to over one million children across the country. The inclusion of fortified kernels in these meals will enhance their nutritional value, addressing the previously unmet need for locally-produced fortified rice kernels, which were previously imported from India.
Key Attendees and Collaborators
The workshop featured prominent figures, including the Chief of Staff to the President, representatives from various government ministries and state organizations, and partners such as the Gates Foundation, WFP, and PATH. Donor agencies like Save The Children, USAID, UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, and FAO, along with significant private sector representatives, were also present.
Panel Discussions and Breakout Sessions
The event included insightful panel discussions addressing the progress, gaps, and unmet needs in food fortification. Breakout sessions focused on quality assurance, storage locations, transport systems, and the expansion of fortification programs to other social protection initiatives and wider markets.
Vision for the Future
Sagala Ratnayaka, Chief of Staff to the President, emphasized the government’s vision and support for food fortification initiatives. He stated, “The Rice Fortification Project supported by the Gates Foundation is a testament to our commitment to improving the health and well-being of our children. We are grateful for the support of our partners WFP, PATH, and Connect To Care in making this vision a reality.”
Roshan Perera, Managing Director of Grains n Green, added, “We are proud to be the first fortified rice kernel producer in Sri Lanka. This project will have a lasting impact on the nutritional status of our population, especially our children.”
The launch of locally-produced fortified rice kernels marks a pivotal step forward in Sri Lanka’s efforts to combat malnutrition and improve the health and well-being of its population, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for the nation’s children.
