On May 6, 2026, KELIN joined the Food Policy Coalition for the launch of a national mass media campaign in Kenya calling for clear front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) on ultra-processed foods. The campaign aims to help consumers quickly identify foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, while promoting healthier food environments across the country.
Under the campaign message, “Your family deserves real food – not hidden harm,” coalition partners called attention to the growing burden of diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the urgent need to ensure families have clear and accessible information about the foods they purchase and consume.
The launch brought together members of the Food Policy Coalition (KELIN, IILA, NCCK, NCD Alliance Kenya and APHRC), alongside representatives from the Ministry of Health, journalists, researchers, advocates, faith leaders, and community stakeholders. During the event, Ministry of Health representative Mr. Zachariah Muriuki highlighted Kenya’s growing “hidden health crisis,” noting the increasing shift from whole foods to ultra-processed foods and the urgent need for stronger food environment policies to protect public health.
A strong and recurring theme throughout the launch was the protection of children from harmful food environments and the aggressive marketing of unhealthy products. Dr. Catherine Karekezi, CEO of NCD Alliance Kenya, emphasized: “Advocate for healthy food environments for current and future generations, and especially for our children who are being exposed directly to marketing, causing obesity and other health burdens.” This remains a key priority for KELIN and the broader coalition, particularly as childhood obesity and diet-related illnesses continue to rise across Kenya.
KELIN emphasized that clear and accessible front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) are essential for advancing the right to information and protecting families and children from misleading food environments. By helping consumers better understand food content at the point of purchase, FOPWLs can support informed decision-making, strengthen accountability within food systems, and contribute to healthier communities across Kenya.
The day closed with a strong call from Rev. Jackline Makena of the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK): “Together we can empower our people to ask the right questions and make healthier choices and therefore, let us all leave here not just informed, but inspired to act.”
Article by Shekina Plowman (she/her), MPH Black Health Candidate, University of Toronto who is on practicum placement at KELIN.
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For more information, please contact:
Pauline Omoto
Program Officer
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
Kuwinda Lane, Karen C, off Langáta Road
Email: paulineomoto@kelinkenya.org
Website: www.kelinkenya.org
