Kenya has witnessed significant headway in reducing the prevalence of stunting among children under five years of age, from 26 percent in 2014 to 18 percent in 2022 this is according to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS, 2022).
State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni Muriuki said that nevertheless, concerted efforts are imperative to achieve global nutrition targets and eradicate malnutrition by 2030.
Ms. Muriuki said that Kenya’s remarkable progress in combating the triple burden of malnutrition has led to the achievement of key milestones which underscore the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all citizens, aligning with both national aspirations and global development agendas.
“Kenya’s endeavors closely resonate with the 3rd Goal of The Africa Agenda 2063, emphasizing health and nutrition for all Africans. By addressing malnutrition comprehensively, Kenya strides towards transforming into a globally competitive and prosperous nation with an enhanced quality of life by 2030, in line with Kenya’s Vision 2030,” said the PS.
Ms. Muriuki highlighted that at the 14th Task force meeting on Food and Nutrition Development convened by the African Union Commission in April 2024, Kenya received commendation for its outstanding strides in addressing the triple burden of malnutrition over the past year.
She said that these accolades underscore Kenya’s resolve towards ensuring healthy development, dignified living, and economic productivity for its populace.
“Kenya’s initiatives stem from the constitutional rights enshrined in Article 43 (1c) and Article 53 (1c), guaranteeing every individual, particularly children, the right to adequate nutrition and healthcare. Despite these constitutional provisions, malnutrition persists as a formidable challenge, posing a threat to the nation’s overarching development agenda,” said Ms. Muriuki.
She explained that spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, the Kenya Nutrition Action Plan (KNAP) 2018-2022 accelerates efforts to scale up interventions aimed at eliminating malnutrition. This includes advocating for the Baby Friendly Community Initiative (BFCI) and implementing micro nutrient supplementation programs.
According to the PS, Kenya has implemented a spectrum of legal frameworks and interventions to effectively tackle malnutrition. These encompass regulations on breast milk substitutes, micro nutrient supplementation programs, food fortification initiatives, and the integration of food and nutrition content into the competency-based curriculum.
“The government remains steadfast in achieving universal health coverage by prioritizing preventive and promotive health measures. Primary Health Care Networks, bolstered by multidisciplinary teams including Nutritionists, play a pivotal role in addressing the triple burden of malnutrition,” said the PS.
She continued, “As individuals, families, communities, and stakeholders, we are collectively summoned to invest in combating the triple burden of malnutrition, paving the path towards a healthy and prosperous Kenya by 2030. Remember, our dietary choices shape our well-being and the nation’s future!”
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
