Pilot project launched to tackle malnutrition in Kiambu and Kilifi
Coast
By
Japheth Makau
| Jul 15, 2025
Malnutrition remains one of Kenya’s most pressing health challenges, with recent data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicating that the country is grappling with an 18 per cent malnutrition rate.
The crisis raises questions about Kenya’s ability to meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending hunger and all forms of malnutrition by 2030.
In a bid to address this concern, the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) has rolled out a pilot project in Kiambu and Kilifi counties targeting the most nutritionally vulnerable population—pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and children in their first 1,000 days.
According to Francis Hale, Director of Communication and Policy at FANRPAN, the initiative focuses on the critical window from conception to a child's second birthday, a period globally recognised as vital for ensuring proper growth and development.
“We are targeting pregnant mothers and breastfeeding mothers in Kiambu and Kilifi counties,” Hale said. “The evidence generated from this project will be used to influence national nutrition policy.”
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Hale emphasised the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, noting that breastmilk provides essential nutrients and strengthens immunity. “We encourage exclusive breastfeeding as it offers unmatched health benefits compared to alternative feeding,” he said.
The project also aims to raise awareness and improve nutrition education among caregivers and communities. In partnership with local health authorities and community workers, FANRPAN is distributing educational materials, offering training sessions, and conducting regular nutritional assessments.
Nutritionists involved in the project noted that issues such as poverty, food insecurity, and misinformation continue to contribute to poor feeding practices across many counties in Kenya.
In coastal regions like Kilifi, high levels of poverty and cultural norms further compound the malnutrition crisis, while in Kiambu, urban food insecurity and lifestyle-related choices pose different but equally pressing challenges.
Beyond community-level impact, the initiative is expected to generate valuable data to guide policy changes at the national level.
Kenya has committed to reducing malnutrition under its National Nutrition Action Plan and through global pledges such as the Nutrition for Growth summit.
However, experts warn that more coordinated and sustained interventions are needed if the country is to meet its 2030 targets.
“We believe that with solid evidence from the ground, supported by community engagement and political will, Kenya can move the needle and protect its future generations from the devastating effects of malnutrition,” said Hale.
The pilot project is expected to run over the next 18 months, after which results will be evaluated and recommendations shared with the Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders.