Description
Background:
Kenya faces a rising burden of diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, largely driven by unhealthy diets high in sugar, salt, and fat. These risks often begin early in life and accumulate over time, highlighting the need for timely, sustained interventions. Despite existing evidence, Kenya lacked a strong regulatory framework, with critical gaps in nutrition standards, consumer information, and food marketing controls. In response, policy advocacy led by NCD Alliance Kenya aimed to strengthen regulation through the adoption of the Kenya Nutrient Profile Model (KNPM), mandatory Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labelling (FOPNL), and marketing restrictions.
Methods:
From May 2024 to August 2025, NCD Alliance Kenya implemented a multisectoral advocacy program to improve food policies and reduce diet-related NCDs. The initiative engaged government, civil society, academia, health professionals, consumers, and development partners through forums, meetings, and dialogues to build consensus and support evidence-based regulation. Over 60 youth digital advocates, 70 community leaders, and individuals with lived experience were trained to lead campaigns promoting healthy food choices. More than 40 journalists and editors were trained in evidence-based nutrition and NCD reporting. Culturally responsive storytelling and a policy documentary supported community outreach. The impact was assessed by tracking policy milestones, analysing pre- and post-advocacy surveys, and monitoring media coverage.
Outcomes:
The project led to adoption of the KNPM and built momentum for enforcing mandatory FOPNL and restricting unhealthy food marketing to children. Policymakers at national and county levels committed to supporting the regulations. Youth-led campaigns generated over 500,000 digital impressions, while trained media expanded coverage to over 8 million Kenyans. Tools like 3D FOPNL models enhanced stakeholder engagement and policy understanding.
Conclusion:
Kenya’s experience offers a replicable model for multi-stakeholder food policy advocacy in NCD prevention.
Keywords:
Non-communicable diseases, food policy, nutrient profile, front-of-pack labelling, food marketing, healthy food environments.
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) |
| Position | Program Officer |
| Received a Grant? | Yes |
| If yes, give grant details | Healthy Food Policy Advocacy |
