Female MPs voice support for nationwide kitchen garden project seeking to boost food security

𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢, 𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲,
𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓,

Female lawmakers, led by National Assembly Deputy Speaker Hon. Gladys Boss, have pledged their support for a nationwide kitchen garden project aimed at promoting food security across the country.

The initiative, known as "Mama Kitchen Gardens", a brainchild of First Lady Rachel Ruto, seeks to empower women while addressing food insecurity and malnutrition.

Speaking at a breakfast meeting attended by stakeholders involved in the project, Hon. Boss stated that women legislators would advocate for the initiative within their respective jurisdictions.

"Many of us have championed food security and good nutrition programs in our areas. This noble initiative by the First Lady will complement our efforts," said the Deputy Speaker.

The Mama Kitchen Gardens project, under the State Department of Agriculture and Livestock, is a national food-growing initiative designed to enhance food security across the country.

Dr. Rono Kipronoh, the Principal Secretary in charge of the department was the Chief Guest at the meeting, which was attended by over 20 female MPs.

"Women MPs represent constituencies and counties, making them vital stakeholders as the initiative is rolled out. I am pleased that we have been involved," Hon. Boss added.

Hon. Leah Sankaire (Kajiado), Chairperson of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), expressed gratitude for involving the legislators and emphasized their full support for the project.

"As leaders, we have strong grassroots platforms to disseminate information about the program. We will work together to ensure its success," said Hon. Sankaire.

She further noted that the kitchen gardens would not only improve household access to nutritious food but also create income opportunities from surplus produce.

Dr. Kipronoh stated that the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with county governments, would oversee the national roll-out of the initiative.

He called for coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to ensure its success.

"The success of this noble initiative relies on collaboration between the national and county governments, private sectors, and local communities," he said, adding that the program aligns with Kenya’s Food and Nutrition Security Policy and the Bottom-Up Economic Model.