TITLE:
Hidden Hunger in South Kivu Province, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: A Review
AUTHORS:
Chouchou Nfundiko, Esto Bahizire, Bintu Ndusha, Gustave Mushagalusa Nachigera, Katcho Karume, Majaliwa Mwanjalolo
KEYWORDS:
Fortification, Supplementation, Biofortification, Micronutrient Deficiencies, Vitamins and Minerals
JOURNAL NAME:
Food and Nutrition Sciences,
Vol.16 No.6,
June
18,
2025
ABSTRACT: Hidden hunger is also known as micronutrient deficiency, a form of malnutrition that occurs when individuals consume an inadequate amount of essential vitamins and minerals. In this review paper, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of hidden hunger, including its causes, consequences, and interventions, as well as identify research gaps and future directions. We hope to contribute to the development of effective strategies for addressing this problem in South Kivu Province, Eastern DRC. In South Kivu Province, the focus has historically been on addressing undernutrition, which is characterized by a lack of sufficient calories. This focus on undernutrition has led to successful programs and interventions such as food supplementation and fortification, which have helped to reduce the prevalence of undernutrition. However, these programs have not necessarily addressed hidden hunger, which requires a different approach focused on increasing access to nutrient-rich foods and promoting healthy dietary habits. Addressing hidden hunger requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving access to nutritious foods, promoting healthy dietary habits, and increasing awareness of the importance of micronutrients for health. The prevalence of hidden hunger highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve nutrition and increase access to nutritious foods, particularly in vulnerable populations. Hidden hunger can affect populations, and addressing it requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account factors such as food access, health status, socioeconomic conditions, and the unique nutritional needs and challenges faced by each population. While each intervention (supplementation or Biofortification) has its strengths and limitations, a combination of approaches that address the underlying causes of hidden hunger can be effective in reducing micronutrient deficiencies and improving nutritional status. Additionally, interventions that are sustainable and integrated into existing systems and programs can have a more lasting impact on addressing hidden hunger. Addressing the gaps in our knowledge on hidden hunger will require involving researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders working together to develop and implement effective strategies to improve nutrition and health outcomes. It is essential to prioritize and invest in interventions aimed at addressing hidden hunger, including food-based approaches, fortification, supplementation, and biofortification. Moreover, research and monitoring efforts should be enhanced to improve our understanding of the effectiveness of these interventions and to identify areas for improvement. Ultimately, addressing hidden hunger is critical for achieving health and development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals.