National policy to boost food security launched in Nairobi

Dr Pauline Ngimwa speaks during the launch of FST in Nairobi on Friday. [Maxwell Agwanda, Standard]

A project has been launched to help develop a national food systems policy to address food insecurity.

The two-year project dubbed Food Systems Transformation (FST) seeks to contribute to the strengthening of equitable, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems in the community.

Dr Pauline Ngimwa, acting executive director of the Partnership for African Social & Governance Research said the policy will reflect on Kenya's Vision 2030, the African Union's Maputo Declaration, and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

"The main objective of this event is to look at the food systems and come up with transformative, inclusive policy-making using the research evidence generated," said Dr Ngimwa.

She was speaking during a workshop on Utafiti Sera Food Systems Transformation House and the launch of FST in Nairobi on Friday.

According to PASGR, the current state of food insecurity in Kenya warrants prompt and coordinated action.

Prof Ruth Oniang'o, who gave the keynote address, said: ''The project is good as it brings in young Kenyans who are passionate about removing Africa from malnutrition, poverty, and hunger."