Martin Muleya
In the heart of Guruve, Mashonaland Central Province, Chifamba High School has embarked on an innovative journey to combat micronutrient deficiencies among its learners.
With the support of HarvestPlus, through the Expanding Nutrients in the food systems project funded by the Government of Canada, the boarding taken bold steps in integrating biofortified crops into its nutrition gardens and meals.
The school has recently incorporated biofortified crops into its school gardens and meals, thanks to the program supported by local extension officers.
Biofortification, a cost-effective and sustainable solution to fighting hidden hunger, involves breeding crops with enhanced levels of essential micronutrients like iron, zinc and vitamin A, which help address micronutrient deficiencies prevalent in many communities. By increasing the nutritional value of staple crops, biofortified crops contribute to improved food security and health outcomes.
They are also a cost-effective way to deliver micronutrients to communities, especially in rural areas where access to diverse diets and supplements may be limited and biofortified crops can be grown using conventional farming practices, making them a sustainable solution for improving nutrition.
An teacher at the school who is not authorised to speak to the press , highlighted that more than 90 students benefited directly from the nutrient-dense NUA45 beans served at mealtime as this was their first encounter with biofortified foods.
“We started small last December with what seemed like a demo plot of half an acre of NUA45 beans and an acre of vitamin A maize. We planted just 2kilograms of NUA45 beans which are rich in minerals and zinc, and harvested an impressive 150kilograms. It was enough to include in our boarding school meals and the learners loved it,” she said.
The program has not only improved the school’s meal offerings but also served as a practical learning experience for students. By growing and consuming biofortified crops, students are gaining hands-on knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices and the importance of nutrition.
A form five student was full of praises for the project and was instrumental in its inception at the school.
“I didn’t know beans could be different in terms of nutrients. Now I understand that what we grow and eat matters. These NUA45 beans are good for our health,” she said.
Another learner also weighed in saying working in the garden taught her a lot about vitamins and their benefits.
“Working in the gardens taught me a lot about Vitamins A and its benefits. I used to think vitamin A maize was just ordinary maize, but now I know it helps with our eyesight and prevent illnesses. I am proud that we are growing food that makes us stronger and smarter,” she explained.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond the school gates, as it has the potential to influence the broader community. As students share their experiences with their families and neighbors, the benefits of biofortified crops can spread, contributing to a healthier and more resilient community.
