NEWS
IHG and Action Against Hunger Mark One Year of Global Partnership Combating Malnutrition
IHG Hotels & Resorts and Action Against Hunger are celebrating the first anniversary of their global partnership, launched in August 2024, which has already delivered life-saving results in the fight against global malnutrition. In its first year, the collaboration helped provide screenings for over 4.5 million people across 55 countries, including Ethiopia, Haiti, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Among those reached were one million pregnant women and 3.5 million children under the age of five.
The initiative addresses the critical issue of food insecurity, which affects nearly one in three people worldwide. By supporting widespread malnutrition screenings and treatment programs, the partnership ensures early detection and intervention, often providing the first step to potentially life-saving care. Beyond funding, IHG has leveraged its network of more than 6,700 hotels worldwide to raise awareness and engage its IHG One Rewards members, who can donate points directly to support Action Against Hunger’s mission. The partnership is part of IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow plan, which aims to improve the lives of 30 million people by 2030.
Funds raised have been directed to the areas of greatest need, with tangible results on the ground. In Gujarat, India, resources helped screen children between six months and five years for malnutrition, train health workers, and refurbish a local health centre into a safe space for education, health, and nutrition. In remote areas of Kenya, community health workers such as Veronica Lalakal have received training to educate families on nutrition and conduct home visits to screen children, ensuring essential care reaches even the hardest-to-access communities.
Leaders from both organizations highlighted the impact of the first year. Jean Michel Grand, Executive Director at Action Against Hunger UK, called the collaboration a “powerful example of how community impact, when embedded into a company’s values, can drive real change.” Dr Charles Owubah, CEO of Action Against Hunger USA, emphasized that harnessing IHG’s global reach has allowed millions to receive nutrition services in record time. Meanwhile, Elie Maalouf, CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, praised the collective efforts of colleagues and guests whose fundraising and loyalty point donations have been integral to the partnership’s success.
Looking ahead, both organizations intend to expand the program to reach even more vulnerable communities, reinforcing the private sector’s role as a catalyst for humanitarian progress.
Source: IHG Hotels & Resorts
TAGS
By using the website, you agree to the use of cookies in accordance with your browser settings.
Privacy Policy