Only a few decades ago, iodine deficiency impaired the growth and mental development of large numbers of children. Now, thanks to a simple solution – salt iodization – this disorder can be easily prevented. UNICEF estimates that 75 per cent of all households globally have adequately iodized salt, compared with fewer than 20 per cent in 1990.

With a strategy that spans farm to salt shaker, community to government, Zanzibar is on track to eliminate the hidden, but devastating, problem of iodine deficiency.

By Sandra Bisin