Placing Nutrition as a Key Priority for Disease Prevention
The Principal Secretary State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni has met UNICEF officials, led by Country Representative Shaheen Nilofer, Deputy High Commissioner & Development Director Brirtish High Commission Leigh Stubblefield, alongside United Againist Malnutriton and Hunger (UAMH) and UK Parliamentary Candidates. The purpose of the convening was to forge a path of multi-sectoral collaboration, placing nutrition as a key priority for disease prevention in Kenya.
The meeting delved into malnutrition challenges in Kenya and the actions being undertaken including support from the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the dedicated Child Nutrition Fund.
Set against the backdrop of Kenya's ambitious pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through Primary Health Care initiatives, the timing of the discussion couldn't have been more opportune. With nutrition identified as a pivotal component in this overarching goal, stakeholders united behind a shared vision, emphasizing its indispensable role in advancing healthcare accessibility and equity.
A pivotal aspect of the deliberations centered on empowering Community Health Promoters (CHPs) through robust capacity building initiatives. By equipping these frontline champions with the tools to advocate for healthy and nutritious dietary choices within their communities.
Moreover, the gathering served as a catalyst for innovation. Participants explored novel approaches to ramp up investments in nutrition while harnessing the power of technology to construct climate-resilient, sustainable food systems. In doing so, they not only envisioned a healthier Kenya but also charted a course towards a brighter, more nourished future for generations to come.