Study on food and nutrition situation in Isiolo County, Kenya

April 10, 2019 at the University of Nairobi, Republic of Kenya 

A research group from the University of Nairobi finalized a study of food and nutrition situation in Isiolo County, Kenya. During the study, extensive data was collected at household level survey and structured interview that was conducted in selected wards of sub-counties in Isiolo, which is a County in the Eastern part of Kenya with an estimated population over 140,000 people and area of 25,000 km2.

The study was designed to present current food and nutrition status in Isiolo County and to investigate the dietary status in the households in order to improve on nutrition status of local population. With this purpose data were collected and analyzed on socio-demographic characteristics of households, income source and livelihood activities, status of child feeding and immunization, Minimum Women Dietary diversity, livestock production as well as on water, sanitation and health facilities.

As a part of the study, the households were trained through existing women groups and SMEs on incorporation of fruits and vegetables in their diets to increase nutrition and health situation of vulnerable groups. Due to the constant dry seasons and droughts in the county, solar drying technology was disseminated to the study cohort to increase shelf life of fruits and vegetables. The technology foresees generation of additional income for households to access other foods hence better nutrition and health.

Based on the study results, recommendations will be further elaborated to improve nutrition security of the Isiolo County population. Results of the study will be published soon. Follow our announcement to learn more.