Nairobi, Kenya – Today the Kenya Legal & Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN), International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA), African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), and Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance of Kenya (NCD Alliance Kenya) have established the Food Policy Coalition Kenya to advance stronger food environment policies and address the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The aim of the Food Policy Coalition Kenya is to provide a coordinated platform for evidence-based advocacy, policy engagement, and public accountability on food environment reforms.
This Coalition is being launched at a pivotal moment in Kenya. According to the Ministry of Health, Non-Communicable Diseases including cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart diseases account for 43% of deaths in Kenya and more than 50% of hospital admissions. This trajectory is alarming and unacceptable!
One of the main factors contributing to the NCDs is the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, which typically have high content of sugar, salt, and fats. It is concerning that these ultra- processed foods are negatively influencing dietary patterns across the country, leading to long-term consequences for the people of Kenya.
The adoption of the Kenya Nutrient Profile Model in 2025 marked an important step by defining and classifying foods with excessive levels of sugar, salt, and fats. This demonstrates Kenya’s commitment in this area. However, there is need to strengthen protection of the people through restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children, establishment of a Front-of-Pack Nutrition Warning Labelling regulatory framework, use of fiscal policies to shape consumption patterns, and improvements in public food procurement. The foundation is in place; the task ahead is to move these measures forward and ensure they are effectively implemented and enforced.
Towards this, the Food Policy Coalition Kenya will prioritize advocacy to promote healthier food environments. We need action now!
The Food Policy Coalition Kenya calls on the Ministry of Health and Parliament to prioritize the development, review, and adoption of food policy measures. Timely action will be central in addressing existing gaps and protecting populations, particularly children, from harmful food environments. The Food Policy Coalition Kenya stands ready to work collaboratively with the government and other stakeholders to support this process.
As the Coalition begins its work, the focus remains clear: to contribute to a future where all Kenyans can access healthier food options, where policy decisions reflect public health priorities, and where the burden of diet-related diseases is steadily reduced.
Better Food Policies. Healthier Futures
For enquiries/interviews, contact:
hnjagi@ncck.org / 0793 324042
rnabwire@ilakenya.org / 0796 409984
