By Diana Wenwa
The Ministry of Health in collaboration with national and county governments, private sectors, and development partners is leading efforts to improve food safety in the country.
Speaking during a stakeholders meeting in preparation for World Food Safety Day 2024, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, announced that the government has introduced the Food and Feed Safety Control Bill, 2023.
This bill is an initiative to enhance the coordination of food safety efforts in the country.
PS Muthoni emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing and managing food safety issues.
This year’s theme will be “World Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected”, which emphasizes the need for readiness and proactive measures.
Food safety is a critical global issue that affects health, economies, and food security.
Approximately 600 million people suffer from foodborne illnesses each year, leading to about 420,000 deaths and economic losses of $110 billion, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Through this Nobel initiative, The Ministry of Health aims to reduce foodborne illnesses, enhance food quality, and strengthen the overall food safety framework.
By introducing the Food and Feed Safety Control Bill 2023, the government seeks to establish a strong system for managing food safety risks and ensuring that food products meet the highest safety standards.
This collaborative effort signifies a significant step towards safeguarding the health of Kenyans and enhancing the country’s food security. As Kenya prepares for World Food Safety Day 2024, the emphasis on multi-sectoral cooperation and proactive measures will play a crucial role in achieving these goals and ensuring a safer food supply for all.