Micronutrient deficiencies are common across the developing world and have major effects on the health
outcomes of its population. Although this is well understood, many countries find it difficult to bring
about policy change in this regard. This paper uses micronutrient policies designed and implemented in
Malawi as a case study to shed light on the barriers and gaps faced by developing countries for similar
programs and policies. To understand the drivers of policy change, this paper uses the kaleidoscope
model to trace the policy processes of three major micronutrients—iodine, vitamin A, and iron. Using a
select set of policy process tools, as well as field interviews with key informants who were part of
Malawi’s micronutrient policy process, the authors test a set of hypotheses on 16 variables that drive
policy change in the micronutrient policy sphere.