Armed conflicts and climate change are exacerbating a global hunger crisis, leaving tens of millions of children under the age of five malnourished. In response to this urgent issue, Naven Salem, founder of Edisia, is on a mission to combat malnutrition worldwide. Her company produces a fortified peanut butter paste known as \"plumpy nut,\" designed to provide essential nutrients to children in need.

Plumpy nut is a nutrient-rich, ready-to-eat paste that requires no water or refrigeration, making it accessible for children to consume independently. It has been shown to dramatically improve the health of severely malnourished children within just six to eight weeks. Salem's firsthand experiences in clinics, such as one in Chad, have solidified her commitment to this cause. She recalls witnessing a two-year-old child who resembled her own newborn, a moment that underscored the urgency of addressing malnutrition.

According to the United Nations Children's Fund, approximately 155 million children under five are malnourished, with the World Health Organization linking nearly half of child deaths in this age group to malnutrition. Salem attributes the rising rates of malnutrition to climate change, which has led to severe droughts and floods, forcing mass migrations and increasing food insecurity.

Andrew Camara, Edisia's vice president of operations, shares a personal connection to the issue, having fled Sierra Leone during its civil war. His experiences as a refugee have fueled his dedication to helping others facing similar struggles. Many of his colleagues at Edisia have also lived through hardship, and they approach their work with a deep sense of responsibility to support those in need.

Each box of plumpy nut produced represents a lifeline for malnourished children, providing meals for two months and the hope of recovery. Salem is also working on developing a product aimed at pregnant women, emphasizing that the fight against malnutrition is not just about treatment but about prevention and ensuring a healthier future for all children.