Haiti's greatest defense against malnutrition is crafted within its own borders

Cap-Haitien, 15 January 2024 – In Quartier Morin, in northern Haiti, the fight against malnutrition follows the steady hum of factory machines. In partnership with UNICEF, Meds and Foods for Kids (MFK) produces ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), an essential ally that saves the lives of thousands of malnourished children every year.

MFK combines innovation and local practices to tackle a nutrition crisis affecting Haiti's most vulnerable populations. Behind every box of RUTF lies a clear mission: to save lives while strengthening the local economy.

A tangible impact on children’s lives

Every week, MFK produces approximately 6,000 boxes of RUTF, each containing 150 sachets of nutrient-rich therapeutic paste. These sachets often represent the last hope for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

Thanks to a dedicated warehouse supported by UNICEF and integrated into the factory, the distribution of these products is both rapid and efficient, even in the regions that are hit the hardest by the multiple crises engulfing the country. This partnership has enabled UNICEF to treat almost 270,000 children suffering from severe malnutrition in Haiti. "Without UNICEF’s support, this work would not be possible. Every box we produce is a step toward a brighter future for these children," says Remenson Tenor, MFK’s General Director. 

Empowering local communities

The impact of this local production goes beyond health centers where malnourished children are treated. By training and supporting Haitian farmers, the factory plays a key role in fostering local economic development. Brénus, a peanut farmer from Cap-Haitien, is one of many beneficiaries of this partnership.

After completing a specialized training, Brénus became a regular peanut supplier for the factory, which profoundly transformed his life and that of his family.

"Before becoming a farmer, I was unemployed, and my family and I lived in precarious conditions. But now, it’s different. Being a supplier for the production of RUTF has given us economic stability," he says with pride. 

Brénus doesn't stop there. He shares his expertise with his children, teaching them how to grow peanuts. “I want them to continue what I've started and have a stable future,” he adds.

So far, UNICEF’s partner has trained over 3,000 farmers and purchased more than 500,000 kilograms of local peanuts, contributing not only to the fight against malnutrition but also the fight against poverty. 

Overcoming challenges, driven by an unwavering mission

Despite the successes, UNICEF and MFK face numerous challenges. Field conditions make the distribution of products risky. "One of our drivers was shot during a delivery. After recovering, he returned to work, fully aware of the importance of our mission," recounts Remenson.

With steadfast support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union, along with the resilience of local teams, the factory will continue to craft vital RUTF, contributing to a future in which no child in Haiti suffers from malnutrition.