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Moringa can reduce malnutrition—Hunger Project

 

Hunger Project Malawi has said if Malawians planted and used Moringa trees, the country would fight malnutrition.

Hunger Project Malawi board member Mandala Mambulasa made the observation last week during the launch of Moringa tree planting at Nchalo in Chikwawa.

Mambulasa said a high intake of Moringa could reduce malnutrition in the country.

Officials view cooking demonstrations that
include Moringa flavours

He said: “The Moringa project  is quite significant. As you know, there are a number of benefits that can be derived from the tree like the micronutrients such as vitamins and proteins, but it also boosts immunity.

“When we visited one of our partners planting Moringa trees, we noted that she is able to sell and use the money for her own benefit. And some seedlings are passed on to some members of the community so that they too can benefit from the tree.”

On her part, Chikwawa District Hospital community health nurse Mable Piriminta said due to incidences of dry spells and hunger in the district, it registers high cases of malnutrition.

She said apart from money made from selling tree leaves, Moringa also contributes to the recommended six food groups.

“Moringa vegetables are rich in vitamins and proteins. You get vitamin C and K. They are rich in calcium that one only finds in fruits. And since most fruit trees do not survive in the district, eating Moringa leaves as a vegetable helps a lot in boosting immunity,” she said.

According to Piriminta, since the Moringa tree intervention was introduced by Hunger Project Malawi in the district, there has been a reduction of supplementary feeding programme in the area. n

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