Boost For Drought Response Efforts As WHO Donates Ready To Use Therapeutic Food Worth Ksh.26,389,440.

Proper nutrition improves a child’s immunity increasing not only their chances for survival but also their ability to reach their maximum potential as adults. The Ministry of Health has today received 5000 cartons of Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (RTUF) worth Ksh 26,389,440 from the World Health Organization (WHO). The donation which is enough to treat 10,000 children aged 6 to 59 months with severe malnutrition will go a long way in complimenting the government’s ongoing drought response efforts.

The principal secretary, Ministry of Health, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Dr Josephine Mburu lauded the WHO’s gesture while reaffirming the government’s commitment in tackling acute malnutrition especially in the 23 counties currently affected by the ongoing drought.

The PS noted that the Kenya Demography Health Survey, 2022 indicate significant progress, in the reduction malnutrition among children under five years. “I take this opportunity to reiterate that the intent of the government is to eradicate malnutrition in the next five years.” she said.

WHO country director Dr Abdourahman Diallo acknowledged government efforts in ensuring Kenyans get access quality healthcare and assured of WHO’s continued support and partnership with the government of Kenya.

The RUTF were flagged off to Garissa, Tana River and Turkana counties.