Mauritius Ranks 6th Among Africa’s Top Countries with Lowest Malnutrition

North and West African nations are making steady progress in reducing malnutrition. Countries like Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal are implementing public health reforms and food programs that prioritize nutrition. Seychelles and Algeria rank among the best globally, with malnutrition rates as low as 2.5%.

Meanwhile, Mauritius, Ghana, and Morocco are balancing economic challenges while focusing on improving nutrition. Asian communities in these countries contribute to small business growth, food supply, and diversity.

African countries are changing the story of malnutrition by focusing on food security.

Despite challenges like population growth and economic instability, some nations are successfully reducing malnutrition through smarter agriculture, better food systems, and people-centered policies.

Governments are investing in national nutrition programs, food education, urban farming, and trade reforms to keep malnutrition rates low.

Here are the 10 African countries with the lowest malnutrition rates in 2025:

10. Egypt – 8.5%
    Egypt, with over 110 million people, has kept malnutrition at 8.5%. The government has expanded access to balanced meals, especially in rural areas, through nutritional education and food subsidies. Fortified flour and subsidized oil help make essential foods affordable. The presence of Asian communities, mainly Indian and Chinese, also adds to diet diversity and food supply.
11. South Africa – 8.1%
    South Africa’s advanced economy reports a malnutrition rate of 8.1%. Mobile food markets and government school nutrition programs improve food access in underserved areas. Asian communities, particularly Indian and Chinese, support urban food affordability and variety. Rural areas still face challenges, but efforts to decentralize food access are showing progress.
12. Morocco – 6.9%
    Morocco has a malnutrition rate of 6.9%, thanks to national strategies that boost food availability. Women-led community farms in the Atlas Mountains have increased household food supplies. Government campaigns promote traditional foods like lentils, olive oil, and couscous, making healthy diets affordable. Small Chinese and Filipino communities in Casablanca also diversify food imports and trade.
13. Ghana – 6.2%
    Ghana’s focus on agriculture, education, and policy has helped reduce malnutrition to 6.2%. Combining traditional farming with urban nutrition programs has been effective. School feeding initiatives and the Planting for Food and Jobs program improve rural food security. Asian entrepreneurs provide affordable food options in Accra and Kumasi.
14. Mauritius – 5.9%
    Mauritius maintains a low malnutrition rate of 5.9%, supported by consistent policies on school nutrition, food imports, and price regulation. Despite high food imports, the country ensures steady distribution and quality. The population’s preference for plant-based foods like rice, spices, and pulses—mainly among those of Indian descent—also helps regulate nutrition.
15. Cameroon – 5.7%
    Cameroon’s malnutrition rate of 5.7% reflects effective government initiatives. Early childhood nutrition clinics, support for small farmers growing yams, vegetables, and plantains, and community gardens play key roles. Church-led campaigns and improved transport infrastructure have also enhanced food access.
16. Senegal – 4.6%
    Senegal’s leadership and regional partnerships have kept malnutrition at 4.6%. Dakar’s school canteens and home gardens are vital for daily nutrition. Traditional foods like thieboudienne and millet-based dishes help maintain good nutrition. Partnerships with Vietnam and China have introduced new agricultural methods, stabilizing local markets.
17. Tunisia – 3.2%
    Tunisia’s low malnutrition rate of 3.2% is linked to its Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and grains. Public awareness campaigns target pregnant women and young families. Small Asian businesses in Tunis also contribute nutritional products, complementing traditional foods.
18. Algeria – 2.5%
    Algeria’s impressive 2.5% malnutrition rate results from government programs that subsidize key foods like bread, milk, and oil. Asian communities actively participate in construction and food trade in Algiers and Oran, helping provide affordable groceries and meals in working-class neighborhoods.
19. Seychelles – 2.5%
    Seychelles holds the top spot with a 2.5% malnutrition rate. The country effectively manages school meal plans, food imports, and dietary education. Food networks focus on preserving local diets that include vegetables, fish, and rice. As a popular tourist destination, Seychelles benefits from diverse food options and well-regulated food systems.

These countries demonstrate that strategic policies, community involvement, and international cooperation can significantly reduce malnutrition, even amid economic and demographic challenges.

Source: African Exponent