In the week ending June 28th, I had the privilege of participating in an intensive training session hosted by the International Institute of Legislative Affairs (ILA) alongside a dedicated team of digital advocates from the Stowelink Foundation. This initiative, which focused on the importance of front-of-pack (FOP) labelling and its advocacy priorities, was part of a broader project aimed at promoting healthier food choices and preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The Importance of Front-of-Pack Labelling

Front-of-pack labelling is a critical tool in public health strategy. By providing clear and concise information on the nutritional content of food products, FOP labelling helps consumers make informed dietary choices. Effective FOP labels can highlight key nutritional information such as calorie content, sugar levels, fats, and salt, thereby aiding in the reduction of diet-related NCDs such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.

A Collaborative Training Experience

The three-day seminar featured comprehensive training sessions and presentations from various stakeholders, including the NCD Alliance of Kenya and the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK). These sessions facilitated knowledge exchange and the adoption of effective advocacy strategies tailored to the Kenyan context.

Representing the Stowelink Foundation, Kevin Oduor and I engaged with fellow advocates and experts, absorbing critical insights on the implementation and benefits of FOP labelling. The collaborative environment allowed us to exchange ideas and learn from each other’s experiences, enhancing our understanding of effective advocacy practices.

Moving Forward with Advocacy

In the coming days, Kevin and I, alongside other stakeholders from the seminar, will actively collaborate to advance advocacy efforts for FOP labelling on food products. Our goal is to foster policy changes that mandate clear, accessible nutritional information on packaging, thus empowering consumers and reducing the prevalence of NCDs in the country.