Current Affairs
The First Forum of the National Association for Dietary Supplements Convenes
07 July, 2026
By: Rogia al-Shafee
Khartoum (Sudanow)
The National Association for Dietary Supplements held its first forum on July 4, bringing together a distinguished group of scientists, researchers, and experts in medicine, pharmacy, alternative medicine, traditional and complementary medicine, as well as specialized institutions. The association represents Sudan's first national reference body dedicated to dietary supplements and natural products.
The forum was held under the theme:
"Towards the Development of the Dietary Supplements and Natural Products Sector in Sudan: A National Vision 2026–2035."

To learn more about the association's role and its efforts to develop the dietary supplements sector, Sudanow interviewed Dr. Shihab Siddig Kurti, a pharmacist and researcher specializing in the development of traditional and complementary medicine, medicinal plants, and dietary supplements.
Dr. Kurti explained that the National Preparatory Committee for the National Initiative to Develop the Dietary Supplements and Natural Products Sector in Sudan (SNNPA) is preparing the country's first national reference document. The document aims to establish a comprehensive national vision for developing the sector through 2035 using a scientific and participatory approach.
He noted that this document is not a conventional report but rather a national strategic framework integrating:
Scientific research
Policies and legislation
Industry and value chains
Investment and innovation
Public health and education
The framework seeks to maximize the utilization of Sudan's natural resources while supporting sustainable development.
Dr. Kurti emphasized that the document is still a collaborative national project rather than a final version, designed to build a shared national vision capable of transforming Sudan's natural resources into sustainable economic, health, and knowledge-based value.
Vision
The vision of the Sudanese National Nutrition and Dietary Supplements Products Association (SNNPA) is to become the country's leading national reference, the foremost scientific and professional umbrella organization, and the primary driver for developing the nutrition and dietary supplements sector in Sudan. This will be achieved by promoting scientific research and innovation, strengthening national manufacturing, improving quality and safety standards, and building effective strategic partnerships.
The association aspires to transform Sudan's rich natural resources into high-value national products that can compete regionally and internationally while supporting public health and sustainable economic development.
The vision also reflects the association's ambition to unite scientists, physicians, pharmacists, researchers, university professors, nutrition specialists, manufacturers, investors, and regulatory authorities within an integrated national system based on partnership, knowledge exchange, and complementary roles. This approach aims to connect scientific research with industry, encourage innovation and investment, and promote a culture of quality and compliance with national and international standards.
Ultimately, the association seeks to establish Sudan as a leading regional hub for the development and manufacture of nutrition products and dietary supplements, reflecting the country's wealth of natural resources and scientific expertise.

Vision Statement:
"Towards an integrated national system that transforms Sudan's natural wealth into high-quality national nutrition products and dietary supplements, founded on science and innovation, contributing to better public health and strengthening the national economy."
Outcomes of the First Forum
The forum concluded with several key recommendations:
Developing regulatory frameworks governing agricultural practices before and after harvest.
Strengthening oversight of product quality and safety.
Establishing a national vision for integrating medicinal and aromatic plants into higher education programs.
Highlighting promising scientific research and clinical trials.
Equipping central, regional, and research laboratories.
Benefiting from successful international experiences.
Expanding training and capacity-building programs.
Promoting the use of modern technologies throughout the sector.
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