CAMEROON : Nestlé partners with the State in the fight against anaemia
(LVDE) – The Cameroonian Ministry of Public Health and Nestlé Cameroon jointly launched, on April 9, 2026 in Bonassama, in the Douala IV subdivision, a nationwide awareness and prevention campaign against anaemia. This public-private partnership initiative aims to reduce the prevalence of the disease in Cameroon, particularly among pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under five, in a context marked by a high burden of disease linked to nutritional deficiencies.
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On the ground, in the Bonassama health district, this operation marks the beginning of a series of coordinated actions between health authorities and Nestlé Cameroon to strengthen the fight against anaemia, identified as a major public health issue. The objective is to improve prevention, intensify screening, and promote better nutritional practices within households in order to reduce the impact of this condition on the most vulnerable populations.
Statistics presented by health authorities indicate a concerning situation: more than 50% of children under five are believed to be affected by anaemia, while pregnant women also record high prevalence rates. This condition, generally linked to iron and essential micronutrient deficiencies, is worsened by unbalanced dietary habits and sometimes limited access to preventive healthcare services. It leads to significant health consequences, including maternal complications, reduced immunity, as well as stunted growth and developmental delays in children.
For health authorities, this campaign aligns with national priorities defined in the National Development Strategy 2020–2030 (SND30) and international commitments in the fight against malnutrition. The Regional Delegate for Public Health in the Littoral has emphasized that nutritional deficiencies constitute a major barrier to human capital development and economic productivity.
The implemented strategy is based on a community approach combining local awareness activities, information campaigns, screening sessions, and the promotion of a balanced diet rich in iron and micronutrients. Health teams also stress the importance of regular prenatal follow-up and early consultation at health facilities for effective care.
As a partner in this initiative, Nestlé Cameroon highlights its commitment to nutrition and public health. The company states that the fight against anaemia is part of a broader sustainable development approach, through the promotion of fortified products and awareness programmes aimed at improving dietary habits.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, anaemia still affects nearly one-third of the global population, with a particularly high prevalence in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Cameroon, authorities believe that sustained prevention and awareness efforts remain essential to reverse the trend in a lasting manner.
The Bonassama launch thus marks the starting point of a nationwide campaign expected to roll out across several localities, with the ambition of strengthening prevention and sustainably improving the health of the most exposed populations.
À propos de l'auteur
Raphael Mforlem 
Tressy CHOUENTE 
