Kenya has ratified the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) Nutrition Joint Programme 2023-2026, reaffirming its commitment to ending malnutrition.
The initiative, co-led by the Ministry of Health (MoH), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Food Program (WFP), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), as well as World Health Organisation (WHO), aims to address malnutrition through a multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach, with a strong emphasis on strengthening community health systems.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni ratified the document on behalf of the Ministry of Health.
PS Muthoni also highlighted the significant strides Kenya has made in improving nutrition outcomes, including a reduction in stunting rates from 40% in 1993 to 18% in 2022 and an increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates to 60%. However, she acknowledged that challenges such as regional disparities and dietary deficiencies persist.
“This joint programme underscores our commitment to addressing malnutrition holistically by scaling up targeted interventions, building resilience in communities, and prioritizing the most vulnerable populations,” said Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni.
“Together, with the support of our partners, we can achieve #ZeroHunger and ensure a healthier and more nourished Kenya.”
The programme seeks to expand nutrition interventions, promote sustainable food systems, and also integrate nutrition-sensitive approaches across various sectors to foster long-term solutions for food and nutrition security.
