Nakuru County to Formulate Comprehensive Nutritional Policy

Nakuru: Nakuru County is currently working on developing a comprehensive nutritional policy, a move aimed at improving the health and well-being of its residents. Ms. Alice Abuki, Chief Officer for Public Health, announced this initiative while speaking at a workshop in a Nakuru hotel.

According to Kenya News Agency, the new nutritional policy is crucial for addressing a range of issues, including undernutrition, malnutrition, stunting, micronutrient deficiencies, and promoting healthy weight management. She emphasized the importance of proper nutrition during early childhood for both physical and cognitive development.

The policy will feature interventions and programs specifically targeting pregnant women and young children, ensuring they receive essential nutrients for growth and development. Abuki highlighted the broader impacts of the policy, noting that promoting healthy diets can prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, thereby reducing healthcare costs.

Furthermore, the nutritional policy will aim to enhance cognitive and educational performance by ensuring that school-age children have access to nutritious meals. This approach is expected to positively impact their academic achievements.

The Chief Officer remarked that the policy would also promote social equity, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their economic status, have access to nutritious food and the knowledge to make healthy dietary choices. In addition, the policy will serve as a platform for public awareness and education campaigns at the grassroots level, informing the community about the importance of nutrition.