Kenya must accelerate food fortification for healthier citizens

Congolese refugees line up to receive aid during a food distribution operation at the Musenyi refugee site in Giharo, on May 7, 2025. [AFP]

Although it often goes unnoticed, hidden hunger is one of the greatest threats to human development. Hidden hunger is deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals, or micronutrients, in a person’s diet, even if they are consuming ample food to meet their energy needs.

Its consequences include weakened immunity, low energy levels, impaired learning and undermined optimal productivity. Globally, over 50,000 mothers die annually from childbirth complications linked to severe anaemia. Nearly 18 million babies are born with impaired cognitive development due to iodine deficiency.