Food Policy Coalition Launches National Campaign on Healthy Eating

By Bruno Aero Family Media Staff Writer

 Coalition of Kenyan civil society organizations has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at encouraging consumers to pay closer attention to the contents of pre-packaged foods amid growing concerns over non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

In a press release issued on May 6, the Food Policy Coalition Kenya said the campaign seeks to raise awareness about excessive levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats found in many ultra-processed food products commonly consumed by Kenyan families.

The coalition noted that poor dietary habits are increasingly contributing to illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer, placing pressure on families and the country’s healthcare system.

According to the Ministry of Health, non-communicable diseases now account for a significant percentage of deaths in Kenya, with health experts warning that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods is worsening the crisis.

Speaking during the campaign launch, Dr. Catherine Karekezi from NCD Alliance Kenya said there is urgent need to empower consumers with clear and accessible nutrition information.

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) are placing an increasing burden on Kenya’s health system, and poor diets are a key driver of this crisis,” she said. “Raising awareness and empowering consumers with clear information is essential to reversing current trends.”

The coalition is advocating for clear front-of-pack warning labels on food products to help consumers quickly identify healthier options and make informed choices when shopping.

Celine Awuor, Chief Executive Officer of the International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA), said many consumers are often unaware of hidden ingredients in the foods they buy.

“Kenyans deserve clear and understandable information about the food they consume. By encouraging people to ask questions about what is in their food, families can take an active role in protecting their health,” she said.

Timothy Wafula, Programme Manager at Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network (KELIN), emphasized the importance of public awareness in promoting healthier food environments.

“Many shoppers are misled into believing that products like juice, cereal, and bread spreads are healthy when they are packed with high levels of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats,” he said.

Research Scientist 

Dr. Shukri Mohammed from the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) said studies on front-of-pack labelling in Kenya have shown that simple and clear labels help consumers make healthier decisions more easily.

The coalition is calling on parents, health professionals, community leaders, and the media to support the campaign by promoting awareness about healthy eating and food transparency.

The six-week campaign will be rolled out through television, radio, social media, and community engagement activities across the country.

“Kenyans have a right to clearly know what is in the pre-packaged ultra-processed foods they buy,” said Imelda Namayi of the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK). “Clear front-of-pack labelling is essential to protect consumers and help families make healthier choices.”