Isiolo, Kenya| The Isiolo County Department of Health, in collaboration with the Nutrition Technical Committee and key development partners, is formulating a Five-Year County Nutrition Action Plan (CNAP) aimed at combating malnutrition and improving public health.
The initiative, which builds upon previous CNAPs, is designed to accelerate and scale up multisectoral interventions to address malnutrition as a public health concern.
The Nutrition Technical Committee, responsible for drafting and implementing the action plan, comprises representatives from crucial county departments, including Health, Water and Sanitation, Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Gender and Social Services, and Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE).
This broad-based, multisectoral approach is intended to ensure that the strategies developed are holistic and sustainable.
Building on Past Achievements
According to Isiolo County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health, Lucy Kaburu, the new CNAP will build on the successes and lessons learned from the first and second nutrition action plans.
The goal is to enhance the county’s response to malnutrition through evidence-based policies, resource mobilization, and coordinated sectoral efforts.
“Evidence suggests that improving nutrition contributes significantly to economic productivity, development, and poverty reduction by enhancing physical work capacity, mental development, and school performance,” Kaburu stated.
“Investing in nutrition is cost-effective, as it reduces healthcare costs and mitigates productivity losses.”
The new Isiolo CNAP (2023–2027) aligns with both national and global nutrition frameworks, including Kenya’s Vision 2030, the Big Four Agenda, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2, which focuses on ending hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition.
Core Objectives and Justification
The Isiolo CNAP seeks to achieve specific nutrition targets by 2027, ensuring a healthier population and a stronger economy. The action plan is underpinned by three core rationales:
- Health Benefits – Proper nutrition enhances overall well-being, reducing disease burdens and improving quality of life.
- Economic Impact – A well-nourished population boosts productivity and economic growth by fostering a healthier workforce.
- Ethical Justification – Access to adequate nutrition is a fundamental human right, essential for social equity and justice.
Strategic Partnerships and Support
Kaburu acknowledged the vital support of development partners who have played a significant role in strengthening Isiolo’s health and nutrition sector.
She specifically recognized Action Against Hunger and UNICEF for their technical and financial contributions toward the development of the Isiolo CNAP.
Currently in the draft stage, the plan is expected to undergo further stakeholder engagement before its final adoption and implementation.
Once finalized, the CNAP will serve as a blueprint for Isiolo County’s efforts to eliminate malnutrition, enhance food security, and improve the overall health status of its residents.
Way Forward
The Isiolo County Government is committed to mobilizing resources and fostering collaborations to ensure the success of the CNAP.
With strengthened political will, community engagement, and partner support, the county aims to make significant strides in reducing malnutrition, promoting food security, and improving public health outcomes.
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The implementation of the plan is expected to transform Isiolo into a model county for nutrition interventions, setting a benchmark for other counties across Kenya.
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