The County Government of Mombasa, in partnership with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), has launched a robust campaign to promote vegetable consumption and address malnutrition among children. This initiative, aptly named “Vegetables for All,” seeks to tackle nutritional challenges by encouraging healthier eating habits and improving food safety standards.
GAIN, established in 2002 by the United Nations, has been operational in Kenya since 2010. The organization is dedicated to addressing malnutrition through strategic interventions. According to GAIN’s county coordinator, John Mung’oo, their research reveals that the average Kenyan consumes less than 130 grams of vegetables daily, a far cry from the recommended 400 grams. The “Vegetables for All” project is active in five counties: Kiambu, Machakos, Nairobi, Nakuru, and Mombasa, with plans to expand further.
In Mombasa, the partnership has focused on training small-scale vegetable vendors, commonly known as mama mbogas, to uphold food safety and hygiene standards. Over 2,400 mama mbogas have been registered, with a target of 10,000 across Kenya. These vendors are being equipped with vital skills, including business management, branding, and hygiene practices. Public Health Officer Hildergard Wasike emphasized the county’s commitment to creating a clean and safe environment for food handling, ensuring public health is safeguarded.
Additionally, the initiative includes the promotion of a market facilitator model to alleviate the challenges faced by mama mbogas. These facilitators, often youth, take on the responsibility of procuring vegetables from markets and delivering them directly to vendors, streamlining operations and improving efficiency. Unlike traditional brokers, market facilitators collaborate closely with mama mbogas, understanding their unique needs and ensuring timely delivery of fresh produce.
The program has already yielded success stories. Safari Ali, a market facilitator, reported significant growth in his business, with daily profits increasing from Ksh 1,000 to Ksh 8,000. Similarly, Nancy Shithaiga, a mama mboga in Jomvu, highlighted how the initiative has transformed her business and personal life. With market facilitators handling procurement, she no longer needs to wake up at 3 a.m., allowing her to manage her time more effectively and focus on her children’s education.
Public awareness campaigns are also a critical component of the project. Residents are being encouraged to consume diverse diets, with vegetables comprising half of every meal. The importance of eating at certified establishments and maintaining hygiene during food preparation is being emphasized, particularly during the festive season.
GAIN’s communications officer, Bonnie Musembi, highlighted the economic toll of malnutrition. The 2019 Cost of Hunger in Africa (COHA) study revealed that child undernutrition cost Kenya Ksh 373.9 billion in 2014, equivalent to 6.9% of the GDP. He noted that poor diets are the leading cause of global ill health, resulting in conditions such as anaemia, stunting, and wasting.
Kenya’s Demographic and Health Survey 2022 underscores the urgency of addressing malnutrition. Stunting affects 18% of children nationwide, with a higher prevalence in rural areas (20%) compared to urban areas (12%). A diverse diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is essential for optimal growth and development.
By enhancing the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables, the “Vegetables for All” project is poised to combat nutritional deficiencies, boost public health, and improve the livelihoods of small-scale traders. The collaborative efforts of the Mombasa County Government, GAIN, and community stakeholders demonstrate the potential of targeted initiatives in addressing systemic challenges and building a healthier future for Kenyan children.
