The Right to Food Coalition has unveiled the Right to Food Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Report, spotlighting critical challenges in Kenya’s food security landscape and advocating for transformative policies to ensure the right to adequate and nutritious food for all.
Speaking at the launch, EACHRights Executive Director Gilbert Onyango emphasized the UPR process as a global mechanism for holding governments accountable to human rights commitments. “The Universal Periodic Review is a global human rights check-up. It’s all about holding governments accountable and pushing for change. In Kenya, it’s our chance to demand action on crucial issues like the Right to Food and food security. Let’s keep our leaders in check,” said Onyango.
The report revealed alarming trends in Kenya’s agricultural sector. Njeri Karanu, National Coordinator of the Right to Food Coalition, highlighted the sector’s declining support despite its critical role in the economy. “Agriculture contributes 20 percent of our GDP and employs 40 percent of the population. However, funding has dropped from KES 87 billion to KES 71.61 billion, far below the target of 10 percent. Mbegu imekua expensive na farmers hawapati support poa [seeds have become expensive, and farmers aren’t receiving adequate support],” she lamented.
Dr. Elizabeth Kimani of the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) presented key findings, including the detrimental effects of austerity measures on food access. Rising living costs and increasing malnutrition were identified as pressing challenges that need immediate redress.
Prof. Nicholas Orago of Maseno University underscored the importance of preserving ecosystems and enhancing national food production capacity. He stressed that these efforts are essential to overcoming the growing challenges to food security and protecting Kenya’s agricultural future.
The report made several urgent recommendations for the government, including:
- Transition to Agroecology: Finalize and implement the National Agroecology Strategy for Food Systems Transformation to promote sustainable practices.
- Diverse Indigenous Foods: Incentivize the production and consumption of millet, yams, potatoes, and other traditional food sources.
- Support for Small Farmers: Develop a national implementation plan to protect peasants’ right to food and fully devolve agricultural sector functions and resources.
- Healthy Diet Guidelines: Update the National Guidelines for Healthy Diets and Physical Activity to align with WHO and UNICEF’s 2021 feeding standards.
- Equitable Practices: Shift agricultural support systems towards sustainable, equitable practices informed by local contexts and the needs of vulnerable groups.
TISA Executive Director Diana Gichengo drew attention to legislative hurdles faced by smallholder farmers. She criticized restrictive laws, such as the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which prevents farmers from sharing uncertified seeds, leaving them dependent on corporations. “Farmers are frustrated, and it’s time to demand laws that truly empower them. The fight for seed freedom and food security continues,” Gichengo said.
The coalition reiterated its commitment to advocating for food sovereignty, sustainable agricultural practices, and policies that empower farmers and tackle food insecurity.
Kenya grapples with the dual challenge of feeding a growing population and mitigating climate change, the Right to Food UPR Report provides a roadmap for a future free from hunger and malnutrition. Now, all eyes are on the government to act decisively.