Particularly in developing countries nearly one billion people are effected by nutrition
insecurity in form of under- or malnutrition (FAO 2010 p. 1). Merely by the expression of
vitamin A-deficiency an estimate of up to 500 000 children go blind worldwide every year (WHO
2011). This survey deals with a solution approach in form of the contribution made by the
orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) and its afford towards nutrition security in rural areas of
Mwanza Tanzania. With help of the partner organization TAHEA a retrospective population-based
study of the nutritional status of rural population of Mwanza was conducted and impressions on
food security were reinforced through participant observation. The positive influence of OFSP
towards vitamin A status has been confirmed and among others an income-generating function by
cultivation and sale of the tuber has been observed. The risk of a possible overdose must also
be considered. Thus the tuber is recommended as a nutritious snack or side dish but should
not be advertised as a considered staple food.
