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World Food Day 2024

October 16th marked World Food Day, to raise awareness of hunger and therefore advocate for food security, nutrition and sustainable food systems globally. Themed “Right to Food for a Better Future,” this day brought together different stakeholders, duty bearers, organizations, researchers, consultants and activists who gathered at the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) Nairobi to discuss the strides in the country’s food systems, challenges and opportunities.

Part of the participants attending World Food Day 2024 at APHRC Nairobi

The conversations in this celebration were centred on the theme of the day “Right to Food for a Better Future.” Speakers and panelists discussed a wide range of topics; food security, food safety, policies governing food systems in Kenya, challenges and opportunities to upscale the better performance of food systems in Kenya.

Food Security

Most speakers and panelists in these celebrations observed that Kenya’s climate vulnerabilities were a recurring phenomenon, with prolonged droughts impacting both urban and rural food systems. Consumers, especially those in peri-urban and rural areas, continue to bear the brunt of these climate shocks as food prices keep soaring. A call for Kenya and most countries globally to relook into their policies governing agricultural practices, for a reconsideration of sustainable food systems wholly to curb the shocks and risks that most consumers were likely to be exposed to as a result of dependence on rain-fed farming mechanisms that could not provide sufficient food sustainably for consumers.

Food Safety and Consumer Health

World Food Day celebrations spotlighted the need for safer food systems. It was notable that the rate of hazardous and toxic chemical usage, such as pesticides in farms, was increasing raising concerns about fresh produce contamination.

These discussions underlined how gaps in policy implementation have left consumers vulnerable to substandard and harmful food products. Further, it raised the need for stringent food safety inspections, better enforcement of existing laws, and public education on food safety cannot be overstated.
Moreover, it was notable that the lack of consumer involvement in policy-making processes was a missed opportunity. Consumers as the end users of food systems were to be endowed with a stronger voice in the design of these policies.

 

Role of Agroecology

A bright spot in the discussions was the emphasis on agroecology as a sustainable solution, for curbing food insecurity and food safety. Stakeholders advocating for agroecological farming noted that agroecology offers a holistic approach to food production that respects ecological balances, supports biodiversity, and strengthens the resilience of food systems.

However, despite the widespread recognition of agroecology’s benefits, small-scale farmers who practice these methods still struggle to gain the market access and financial support they need to thrive. It’s important that the government invests in scaling up agroecological practices through subsidies, training programs, and market linkages. Consumers, on the other hand, should be educated on the long-term benefits of supporting such farming systems and benefits that go beyond the plate to include environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods.

Governance

Effective governance was termed key in addressing the challenges of hunger, malnutrition, and sustainable food systems. Strong leadership and transparent policy frameworks at national and county levels was believed to ensure that resources are allocated equitably, smallholder farmers are supported, and sustainable practices are encouraged. Governance in this dimension was elaborated in prioritizing inclusivity, bringing together farmers, consumers, civil societies, and government agencies to build resilient food systems that withstand environmental and economic pressures, a reiteration that good governance is salient in transforming Kenya’s food systems towards sustainability.

Actionable Gaps


As the World Food Day celebrations and discussions came up, the engagements opened gaps to translate the mere talks into actionable change. As a consumer organization, the following gaps were identified thus calling for action;

  • Affordability of Nutritious Food
    The high cost of nutritious food remains a major barrier for many Kenyan households. While innovative farming methods and water conservation strategies are critical, the average consumer still struggles with the rising cost of living. Policies aimed at food security must include subsidies or price controls for essential food items, ensuring that healthy and safe food is within reach for all, not just the privileged few.
  • Consumer Awareness and Education
    World Food Day event did not fully address the role of consumer education in driving food systems change. Many Kenyan consumers are unaware of the health risks associated with pesticide use, genetically modified foods, or the benefits of buying from local agroecological farmers. Consumer Grassroots Association strongly believes that consumers are the most powerful stakeholders in the food system once empowered with knowledge, they can demand better food safety standards, support sustainable farming, and make informed purchasing decisions.
  • Consumer Representation in Policy Making
    Despite the valuable discussions on food security, and sustainability, there was a noticeable lack of consumer representation in these conversations. It is crucial for future food systems dialogues to include consumer voices at the decision-making table. Without this, policies will continue to reflect the interests of large agribusinesses and policymakers, leaving out those most affected by food insecurity and unsafe food practices.

Path Forward

In commemoration of this year’s World Food Day, it’s evident that Kenya’s food system is at a critical crossroads. The country’s future depends not only on sound policies and sustainable agricultural practices but also on the inclusion of consumer voices in shaping these strategies.

Consumer Grassroots Association remains committed to advocating for a food system that is sustainable, safe, and equitable. We urge the government, private sector, and all stakeholders to prioritize the consumer in every conversation on food security. Consumers have the power to drive change through their choices, their advocacy, and their voices. As we look to the future, let’s ensure that no one is left behind and that every Kenyan has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.

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