“Development of nutritious sesame fortified cereal porridges from traditional grains for improved food and nutrition security in Zimbabwe.”
Country of Study
Zimbabwe
Institution
University of Zimbabwe
Expected Year of Completion
2026
Thematic Area
Agriculture and Food security
Education
Vimbainashe holds a Master’s degree in Food Processing Systems and Technology from the University of Zimbabwe, completed in 2020. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Agriculture at the University of Zimbabwe, having successfully defended her research proposal and completed her coursework. Vimbainashe is expected to defend her dissertation in October 2026 and graduate in December 2026. She works as a Junior Lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe.
Research Summary
Vimbainashe’s research addresses food insecurity and undernutrition in Zimbabwe, where heavy reliance on maize and climate change exacerbate these issues. With projections showing that a significant portion of both rural and urban populations will be food insecure by 2025, this study proposes developing instant porridges from climate-resilient traditional grains (sorghum, finger millet, and pearl millet) fortified with sesame seeds. The research aims to assess the feasibility, nutritional benefits, antioxidant properties, sensory appeal, and market acceptability of sesame-fortified porridges. By promoting the use of underutilized crops and enhancing dietary diversity, this work could reduce dependence on maize and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, ultimately improving food security and addressing micronutrient malnutrition in Zimbabwe.
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