Brazil's dramatic success at reducing infant mortality and malnutrition

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Brazil touts 'Zero Hunger' program
By Yana Marull (AFP) – 10 hours ago


BRASILIA — As the United Nations food agency meets in Rome to discuss ways to combat global hunger, Brazil's President Luiz Inacia Lula da Silva can tout the success of his country's "Zero Hunger" program.

While the country still faces major challenges, including massive economic disparities, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates malnutrition has been reduced by 73 percent in the last six years.

According to the organization, which opened a three-day meeting in Rome on Monday, Brazil has also managed to reduce infant mortality by 45 percent in the same period.

The "Zero Hunger" program began in 2003, in the early days of Lula's presidency, and combines dozens of social programs ranging from the construction of water tanks in dry regions to agricultural loans and food aid.

Key to the efforts has been the "Family Purse" program, which has been adopted in several African and Latin American countries. ..........(more)

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