It is with deep respect that we pay tribute to Philip Randall—a dedicated technical expert whose work with FFI and other organizations in large-scale food fortification left an enduring impact across continents.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Philip made South Africa his home, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a passion for improving public health through nutrition. With postgraduate education in both the UK and South Africa, and early service in the South African government’s Food Department, Philip laid a strong foundation for a career that would span decades and borders.
Philip’s expertise in fortifying staple foods such as wheat flour, maize flour, vegetable oil, and salt was sought after by governments, United Nations agencies, and the food industry alike. As a short-term consultant, he worked tirelessly across Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, collaborating with the Food Fortification Initiative, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, the World Food Programme, and the World Bank. Philip was most involved with FFI as part of the Smarter Futures program, which helped make the fortification of wheat flour, maize flour, and rice a reality in dozens of countries across Africa. His technical acumen and ability to build rapport with stakeholders—from national ministries to milling industry leaders—were instrumental in advancing food fortification programs that continue to benefit millions of people.
What set Philip apart was not only his deep knowledge but his unwavering commitment to the mission and his genuine connection with colleagues. He had a rare ability to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that fortification efforts were both scientifically sound and practically feasible.
Philip’s legacy lives on in the fortified foods that nourish communities, in the programs he helped shape, and in the hearts of those who had the privilege to work alongside him. The fortification community will miss him—his insight, his dedication, and most of all, the warmth and respect he brought to every collaboration.
Photo: Philip (left) at an FFI meeting in Indonesia in 2011.
