A significant portion of the population in Malawi is malnourished, suffering from "hidden hunger" or micronutrient deficiencies stemming from a lack of nutrients in their daily diets. In Malawi, 46% of children under five are stunted, 48% are iron deficient, and 22% are vitamin A deficient. Among women of childbearing age, 25% are iron deficient and 57% are vitamin A deficient. These deficiencies lead to unnecessary and preventable deaths and disabilities and enormous economics losses for the nation.  

One of the most economical and effective ways of addressing this problem is through fortification - the process of adding these essential micronutrients to the foods people are already eating.  The government of Malawi is committed to providing these foods to its population through the mandated fortification of staple foods in the country, but many in the rural areas are unaware of this campaign and ill informed of its importance for their health and the health of their children. 

In rural communities, where the vast majority of Malawians live, radio is the best access to information and communication. Well-produced radio programs reach the masses, providing important messages and teaching critical lessons. With the national fortification program underway in the country, it's imperative that a similar IEC campaign be undertaken, to ensure that correct information is conveyed and that the population has the proper information to make life saving decisions in what they consume. Although fortification arguably requires little behavior change, it is important that consumers understand what is being added to their food in the event that some believe that the added nutrients will cause adverse health outcomes, as has been in the case in past programs. This project will allow for several radio spots to be produced, discussing the importance of fortification, as well as a full length radio program to explain national fortification efforts, the foods to look for which are being fortified with the critical vitamins and minerals, and the fortification logo that identifies the fortified food vehicles as approved by the Malawi Bureau of Standards quality control checks. Understanding the health benefits of consuming adequately fortified foods is the first step in making a difference in the lives of those suffering and dying due to malnutrition.