Integrating Actions for Innovative Food Systems Across Rural-Urban Communities in Kenya

Over the years, Kenya has continued to experience high levels of food and nutrition insecurity. At the same time, the country is experiencing a rapid rate of urbanization, which is double the population growth rate. The growth of cities and urban areas has a direct impact on food security due to diminishing land for agriculture productivity and decreasing labour force, as a result of rural urban migration. In addition to reducing land for agriculture production, rapid urbanization contributes to climate change because of increasing greenhouse gas emissions from cities. Urban populations often struggle to pay the high cost of city living or are unable to afford sufficient food to meet their minimum nutritional requirements. Food systems present an opportunity to address these challenges and contribute to sustainable urban development. This project was therefore designed to contribute to improved food security and nutrition by empowering local government and communities, while fostering food systems innovations with the assistance of partners and advisory agents.