Kenya's Ministry of Health Spearheads Global Malnutrition Initiative
Nairobi, Kenya - 15th April 2024 - Kenya's Ministry of Health, through the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, has achieved significant progress in addressing the triple burden of malnutrition, reflecting the government's steadfast commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all citizens.
Kenya's dedication to combating malnutrition received significant recognition during the recent 14th Taskforce meeting on Food and Nutrition Development, convened by the African Union Commission. The commendation bestowed upon Kenya underscores its exceptional efforts over the past year and highlights the nation's commitment to promoting healthy development, dignified living, and economic productivity for its citizens.
Notably, the prevalence of stunting among children under five has decreased from 26% in 2014 to 18% in 2022, according to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) of 2022. However, concerted efforts are still needed to meet global nutrition targets and eliminate malnutrition entirely by 2030.
In a statement issued on 15th April 2024, Ms. Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, highlighted the strategic alignment of Kenya's initiatives with the 3rd Goal of The Africa Agenda 2063.
She emphasized the importance of addressing malnutrition comprehensively as Kenya aims to become a globally competitive and prosperous nation with an enhanced quality of life by 2030, in line with Kenya's Vision 2030.
Kenya's efforts are rooted in constitutional rights enshrined in Article 43 (1c) and Article 53 (1c), guaranteeing every individual, especially children, the right to adequate nutrition and healthcare. Despite these provisions, Ms. Muthoni acknowledged that malnutrition remains a significant challenge, posing a threat to the nation's overall development agenda.
The Ministry of Health's multisectoral approach, particularly through the Kenya Nutrition Action Plan (KNAP) 2018-2022, aims to scale up interventions to eliminate malnutrition. Legal frameworks and interventions, such as regulations on breastmilk substitutes and food fortification initiatives, are being implemented to effectively address malnutrition.
Ms. Muthoni emphasized the government's commitment to achieving universal health coverage by prioritizing preventive and promotive health measures. Primary Health Care Networks, supported by multidisciplinary teams including Nutritionists, play a crucial role in addressing the triple burden of malnutrition.
She called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to invest in combating malnutrition, paving the way for a healthy and prosperous Kenya by 2030.