TIILA, in collaboration with the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), the Ministry of Health, KELIN, and the Nutrition Association of Kenya, held a productive meeting with Hon. Bernard Kitur, Member of Parliament for Nandi Hills. The engagement focused on evidence-based food policy reforms that aim to promote healthier diets and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya.

The discussion explored a range of practical and impactful policy actions, including:

   Introducing Front-of-Pack Warning Labels for foods and beverages high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats—making it easier for consumers to make informed choices.

    Restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children, especially through media and packaging that targets younger audiences.

   Fiscal and procurement reforms to improve the affordability and accessibility of nutritious foods, particularly for low-income populations.

The dialogue underscored the growing urgency to strengthen Kenya’s food environment as diet-related NCDs such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease continue to rise. Encouragingly, Hon. Kitur expressed strong support for many of these interventions and has already demonstrated leadership by proposing a health levy on sugary drinks through the Finance Bill 2025.

This meeting marks another important milestone in IILA’s advocacy efforts to advance smart food policies that protect public health, support healthier lifestyles, and reduce the strain on Kenya’s health system.