Call for Stronger Nutrition Coordination as Kenya Pushes for Better Health Outcomes

Kenya must strengthen coordination in the nutrition sector to accelerate progress in health outcomes and national development, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni has said.

Speaking during the Annual Nutrition Excellence Awards Dinner, Muthoni emphasized that nutrition remains a cornerstone of Universal Health Coverage and plays a critical role in improving the country’s overall well-being.

She noted that despite the existence of policies and frameworks, there is an urgent need to shift focus toward implementation, particularly in building healthier and more sustainable food systems.

“We must move from policy to action if we are to effectively address the growing burden of malnutrition in all its forms,” she said.

The Principal Secretary pointed out that malnutrition—ranging from undernutrition to rising cases of obesity and diet-related diseases—continues to pose a significant challenge in Kenya, affecting children, adolescents, and adults alike.

Muthoni highlighted the Kenya Nutrient Profile Model as a key intervention in guiding food labelling and regulating the marketing of unhealthy foods. She said the tool will also empower consumers to make informed dietary choices, contributing to better health outcomes.

In addition, she underscored the importance of strengthening primary healthcare systems and expanding community-level nutrition services. According to her, bringing services closer to households will help ensure preventive care, early intervention, and improved access to essential nutrition support.

The awards event brought together nutrition professionals, development partners, and key stakeholders from across the country, providing a platform to recognize excellence and reinforce collaboration in advancing Kenya’s nutrition agenda.

Stakeholders at the forum reiterated the need for multi-sectoral partnerships and sustained investment to tackle malnutrition and promote healthier populations, noting that improved nutrition is fundamental to achieving long-term social and economic development goals.