Kenya to celebrate top food millers in fortification drive

Kenya’s efforts to fight hidden hunger through food fortification are set to take center stage next week as millers, government officials, and nutrition experts gather for the Kenya Micronutrient Fortification Index (KMFI) Awards 2025.

The awards, slated for September 16 in Nairobi, will honor food processors excelling in fortifying wheat flour, maize flour, and edible oils—staple foods that millions of Kenyans rely on daily.

Large-scale food fortification (LSFF) is recognized as one of the most effective and affordable nutrition interventions worldwide.

Kenya has made significant strides by mandating the fortification of key foods, building on its earlier success in eliminating iodine deficiency through universal salt iodization.

Despite this progress, challenges remain: national surveys show that 18 percent of children under five are stunted, while over 60 percent of women suffer iron deficiency.

Nutrition experts warn that these figures not only threaten public health but also weigh heavily on the country’s economic productivity.

To close this gap, the Millers for Nutrition (M4N) initiative, launched in 2023, has been working with local processors to boost compliance, introduce innovation, and foster accountability.

In collaboration with the Cereal Millers Association, M4N developed the Kenya Millers Fortification Index (KMFI)—a self-regulatory platform that benchmarks millers, recognizes high performers, and complements government enforcement.

“This award ceremony is about celebrating champions who are going beyond compliance to drive impact. It’s also about strengthening partnerships across government, industry, and civil society to ensure fortified foods reach more households,” noted the organizers.

This year’s theme, “Unlocking Sustainable Fortification: Innovation, Performance & Ecosystem Recognition,” underscores the push for innovation and private sector leadership.

The program will feature keynote speeches, data-driven presentations, and a panel discussion spotlighting the state of fortification in Kenya—covering compliance, enforcement, and the future role of industry players.

Among the expected participants are CEOs of major food companies, representatives from the Ministries of Health, Trade, and Agriculture, regulators such as KEBS, technical experts, civil society organizations, and consumer advocates.

By recognizing outstanding millers and addressing persistent challenges, the event aims to strengthen consumer trust in fortified foods and encourage more companies to prioritize nutrition.

Organizers also hope it will accelerate private sector investment, cementing Kenya’s place as a leader in food fortification across Africa.