Ministry of Health Reiterates Kenya’s Commitment to Spearheading Regional Nutrition Policy Reforms

Nairobi, Kenya – 9 April 2025 – The Ministry of Health has restated Kenya’s dedication to driving nutrition policy reforms to improve food environments and combat malnutrition in East Africa.

The commitment was underscored during the conclusion of the East Africa Regional Dialogue on Policies to Transform Markets for Nutritious Foods, held in Mombasa. Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Bare Duale, EGH, represented by Dr. Joseph Lenai, Director Preventive and Promotive Health , highlighted the necessity for regional collaboration to tackle undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising obesity rates.

The Ministry pointed out that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) contribute to 39% of deaths in Kenya, over 50% of hospital admissions, and 11% of health expenditure. To counter this, Kenya is accelerating food environment policies, including: Front-of-pack nutrition labelling and Marketing restrictions on unhealthy foods, especially those targeting children.

Additionally, the government pledged to bolster cross-sectoral coordination, engage East African Community (EAC) partners, and reinforce legislative frameworks for sustainable nutrition outcomes.

Co-hosted by the Ministry of Health, African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), and Access to Nutrition initiative (ATNi), the forum convened government officials, civil society, academia, and private sector stakeholders to assess progress, exchange best practices, and strategize for healthier food systems.

The Ministry also recognized the critical role of research and civil society in advancing evidence-based policies and ensuring accountability in nutrition initiatives.

Kenya remains steadfast in building resilient food systems to guarantee safe, nutritious, and affordable diets for all its citizens.

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