Virtual Event – Micronutrients in emergencies: How can we prevent an increase in hidden hunger?

The COVID-19 pandemic is transforming our world. We are seeing rapid changes in areas such as health care delivery, food security, agriculture, and international aid prioritization. In addition to the immediate impact to health and society, the COVID-19 pandemic may result in significant short- and long-term disruptions to food systems, resulting in decreased availability of nutritious foods, and a rise in the global prevalence of all forms of malnutrition, including micronutrient malnutrition. Micronutrient deficiencies can easily develop, or be exacerbated, during such an emergency. Previous emergencies must inform how we meet the micronutrient needs of affected people. The Micronutrient Forum and IFPRI invite you to join us and expert speakers for a seminar about micronutrients and pandemic emergencies.

Opening Remarks

• John McDermott, Director, CGIAR Research Program on Agriculture for Nutrition and Health (A4NH)

Presenters

• Nita Dalmiya, Nutrition Specialist, Maternal Nutrition, UNICEF
• Daniel Gilligan, Deputy Division Director, Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, IFPRI
• Penjani Mkambula, Global Program Lead for Food Fortification, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN)
• Saskia Osendarp, Executive Director, Micronutrient Forum

Moderator

• Rajul Pandya-Lorch, Director, Communications and Public Affairs & Chief of Staff, Director General's Office, IFPRI

The event video, presenter slides, podcast, and a blog will be available in the days following the event.