National Protein Day: RTP fuels Sub-Saharan Africa with the right protein, the right way

In Sub-Saharan Africa, where food insecurity remains a pressing challenge, access to adequate nutrition is essential for economic growth, health, and overall well-being.

As we celebrate National Protein Day 2025, the theme, Fueling Sub-Saharan Africa: The Right Protein, The Right Way, underscores the urgent need to promote protein awareness and ensure sustainable, nutritious, and accessible sources of protein for all.

Protein deficiency has continued to be a critical issue in the region, with millions suffering from malnutrition-related conditions due to inadequate protein intake. While protein is essential for muscle development, immunity, and cognitive growth, many communities struggle with affordability and availability. The challenge is not just increasing protein consumption but ensuring it is done the right way—through sustainable practices, education, and equitable distribution.

According to a statement from Right to Protein Nigeria (RTP), achieving optimal protein consumption requires a mix of both animal and plant-based sources. While traditional sources like poultry, fish, and beef remain important, there is growing advocacy for alternative protein options such as legumes, nuts, soy, and emerging innovations like insect-based proteins and lab-grown meat. A diversified protein diet helps bridge the nutrition gap while reducing environmental impact and making protein more accessible.

To truly fuel Sub-Saharan Africa with the right protein, RTP said “We must focus on education and awareness – empowering communities with knowledge on protein sources, and cooking methods, and nutrition benefits to make informed dietary choices.”

Other key factors to fuel Sub-Saharan Africa with the right protein include, “Sustainable Production – encouraging eco-friendly livestock farming, aquaculture, and plant-based protein cultivation to reduce carbon footprints and resource depletion, policy support – advocating for government and private-sector investments in agricultural technology, infrastructure, and food fortification programs and Affordability & Distribution – Strengthening food supply chains to lower costs and ensure protein availability in rural and urban communities alike.”

As stakeholders—governments, businesses, NGOs, and individuals—we have a shared responsibility to drive change. Investing in research, innovation, and policies that support sustainable protein consumption will be key to combating malnutrition and building a healthier, more resilient Africa, the statement said.

“On this National Protein Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to Fueling Sub-Saharan Africa: The Right Protein, The Right Way—because nutrition is the foundation of progress, and the right protein can shape the future of a thriving continent,” RTP stressed