Kenya has called for increased investment, stronger partnerships and innovative financing to tackle food insecurity across Africa as the continent grapples with the effects of climate change, recurrent droughts and floods.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale made the remarks during a high-level strategic and diplomatic dialogue on food and nutrition resilience in Africa held in Nairobi under the theme, “Investing in Durable Solutions for Food and Nutrition Security in Africa.”
The dialogue brought together senior government officials, diplomats, humanitarian organisations and development partners to discuss sustainable solutions to food insecurity and malnutrition across the continent.
Duale joined His Majesty King Letsie III of the Kingdom of Lesotho, a long-time advocate for nutrition and food security in Africa, during the discussions.
Representing the Government of Kenya, the Cabinet Secretary said Africa possesses enormous agricultural potential but continues to face growing threats from climate change and extreme weather events that undermine food production and livelihoods.
He stressed that addressing food insecurity requires integrated approaches that combine climate adaptation, improved water security, strengthened livelihoods and resilient healthcare systems.
“Africa has immense agricultural potential, but climate change, recurrent droughts and floods continue to threaten food security. Lasting solutions require integrated approaches that strengthen climate adaptation, water security, livelihoods and health,” Duale said.
He urged governments, development partners, financial institutions, humanitarian agencies, the private sector and local communities to work together in transforming Africa’s food systems.
The Cabinet Secretary also called for increased investment through innovative financing mechanisms and stronger public-private partnerships to accelerate progress towards achieving Zero Hunger across the continent.
The dialogue also showcased investments in sustainable food and nutrition security, including community-based programmes implemented by the Kenya Red Cross Society, which have supported vulnerable communities in building resilience against food shortages and climate-related shocks.
Duale reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working closely with the African Union, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and other partners to develop sustainable, long-term solutions to food insecurity.
He said collaboration among governments and development partners remains critical in ensuring Africa builds resilient food systems capable of withstanding future challenges.
The meeting was attended by Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, British High Commissioner to Kenya Matt Baugh, Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Jagan Chapagain, Kenya Red Cross Society Chairman Dr Ahmed Idris, alongside representatives from government, diplomatic missions, development partners, civil society organisations and the private sector.
