FOLU advocates for a sustainable, inclusive and resilient food system

Dec 5, 2023 - 18:26

Crop Development and Research PS Dr. Paul Ronoh (Right) and AGRA East and Southern Africa Regional Manager Prof. Jean Jacques Muhinda display the Food and Land Use Coalition Kenya (FOLU) Action Plan 2024-2030 that recommends on building a much better sustainable, inclusive and resilient food system through improved soil health and management at Serena Hotel, Nairobi on Tuesday, 2023.

Nairobi,

Tuesday December 5 2023,

KNA by Kelvin Waribu

Food and Land Use Coalition Kenya (FOLU) is hosting World Soil Day Conference, involving over 100 stakeholders to discuss soil health and management's role in meeting nutritional demands for growing population.

The FOLU Action strategic plan 2024-2030 aims to improve Kenya's sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food system by prioritizing key sustainable land use, productive agriculture, healthy diets, reducing food loss and promoting gender, youth and social inclusion. Kenya's agriculture sector, integral to its economy and food security, currently realizes only 25% of its potential yields.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Paul Ronoh, Principal Secretary for Crop Development and Research, emphasized the government's commitment to improving soil health to enhance Kenya's food systems.

Dr. Ronoh expressed his honor to participate in the 68th session of World Soil Day celebrations, which have been celebrated every 5th of December since 2015, as declared by the United Nations General Assembly.

He cited, the correlation between soil health and land use is significant in improving soil health through appropriate land use practices is crucial for intensifying agriculture production, enhancing food security, and protecting the environment.

The principal secretary also announced a strategic plan, through collaborative efforts with multiple stakeholders to establish a food system in Kenya that nourishes its people, protects the planet, and boosts the economy.

At the same time, Sustainability Growing Africa’s Food System (AGRA), Vice President for Program Delivery Prof. Hamadi Boga noted, “We are pleased to launch the Food Systems and Land Use action plan 2024-2030 on this World Soil Day.” 

Boga emphasized the importance of evidence-based recommendations in Kenya's food system transformation, highlighting the need for continued focus on soil as a critical element.

The conference is aimed at promoting Kenya's sustainable consumption, healthy diets, and sustainable food systems in line with UN Food Systems Summit recommendations and the Kenyan Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Plan.

Courtesy; KNA