World Food Day: Unilever Highlights Royco’s role in Combating Micronutrient Deficiency

Unilever Uganda, through its nutrition brand Royco, joined the global community in commemorating World Food Day with a special event at Kira Health Centre IV. 

The initiative reaffirmed Unilever’s ongoing commitment to improving nutrition and promoting healthier living throughout the country.

World Food Day, observed annually on October 16, serves as a moment for communities worldwide to reflect on the universal right to access nutritious food. Unilever’s event focused on the pivotal role fortified foods play in enhancing health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The event drew significant participation from the Kira community, with residents engaging in activities designed to promote nutrition education and healthy living. 

Attendees were offered free anaemia screenings, nutritional assessments, and dietary advice, gaining valuable insights into the importance of iron-rich and fortified foods. 

The event emphasised how these foods can help combat micronutrient deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, which disproportionately affects women, children, and adolescents in Uganda.

Kira Municipality Mayor Julius Mutebi welcomed the health screenings and services for the vulnerable people and stressed the need for regular health check-ups to the community.  

One of the day’s key highlights was a cooking demonstration featuring Royco Cubes, which are fortified with iron. 

The demonstration showcased simple and affordable ways to incorporate essential nutrients into everyday meals. Attendees were also treated to food samples and inspired with recipe ideas to encourage healthier eating habits at home.

Grace Nandawula, Nutrition Category Manager at Unilever Uganda, emphasised the importance of the event as part of Unilever’s broader mission to create a healthier future for all Ugandans.

“We chose Kira Health Centre IV for this initiative because we recognise the critical need to raise awareness about iron deficiency in communities like this one. Our aim is to equip people with the knowledge and resources to make healthier choices, and this event provided us with an opportunity to engage directly with them,” said Nandawula.

Livingstone Mujjuzi, Kiira Health Centre’s superintendent emphasised the need to eat right, “If you eat well, the food can be medicine and you won’t need to come to hospitals,” he said.

This year’s World Food Day was celebrated under the theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” highlighting the global advocacy for access to nutritious and affordable food as a basic human right.

Royco, a household name in Uganda, is renowned for its rich flavour and nutritional benefits. The brand continues to prioritise well-being by making fortified food products both accessible and affordable, with a Royco cube’s recommended retail price being only Shs100.

“At Royco, we aim to empower people with the knowledge that nutritious meals can be both simple and within reach. Through education on fortified foods, we hope to inspire healthier eating habits,” Nandawula added.

Through initiatives like this World Food Day event, Royco reaffirms its dedication to improving the health and well-being of Ugandans by offering iron-fortified solutions that address critical nutritional gaps.