Kenya has urged African countries to invest more in sustainable water management to strengthen food production, improve nutrition, and build resilient agrifood systems. This call was made by Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh during the 17th Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security in Nairobi. Dr. Ronoh emphasized that access to sustainable water resources is critical for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring the availability of safe, nutritious, and affordable food for all Africans.
Africa faces significant challenges, including drought, water scarcity, and declining water quality, which undermine the resilience and productivity of food systems. Dr. Ronoh stressed that integrated approaches linking water management with agriculture, nutrition, sanitation, and environmental conservation are essential. The theme of the two-day continental gathering, 'Harnessing Sustainable Water for Resilient Agrifood Systems, Nutrition Security, and Inclusive Prosperity in Africa,' reflects the urgency of addressing these challenges.
The meeting aligns with the African Union's 2026 Theme of the Year, focusing on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems. Dr. Ronoh noted that the link between water, agriculture, nutrition, and health requires coordinated interventions from governments and development partners. Water is essential across the entire agrifood value chain, including crop production, livestock farming, and food processing.
Food insecurity is a major concern, with approximately 309 million Africans undernourished in 2025, compared to about 171 million in 2010. Nearly 57 percent of Africa's population experienced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2025. Dr. Ronoh cautioned that the recovery from global hunger remains fragile and uneven, with Africa bearing a disproportionate share of the burden.
The PS emphasized that the Nairobi meeting should produce practical commitments and measurable actions to address food insecurity. He challenged delegates to ensure concrete commitments and actions for implementation, stronger integration of water and nutrition priorities, and increased investment and partnerships. Involving young people in agrifood systems is essential to building a sustainable food future.
The meeting seeks to strengthen political commitment and accountability for sustainable water management, promote collaboration across agriculture and nutrition sectors, and mobilize investment from governments and the private sector. Partnerships with youth-led organizations, academia, and civil society will help accelerate progress. Dr. Ronoh called for greater promotion of indigenous foods and sustainable food sources to diversify diets and improve nutrition outcomes.
Kenya, in partnership with the African Union Commission and the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, is hosting the event, which brings together government representatives, development partners, and private sector players. The conference aims to identify practical measures to make nutritious diets more accessible and prevent children from going hungry. Dr. Ronoh urged policymakers and stakeholders to use the conference to address the challenges facing Africa's food systems.
Key points
- Kenya calls for increased investment in sustainable water management to boost food production and nutrition across Africa.
- Africa faces significant challenges, including drought, water scarcity, and declining water quality, which undermine the resilience and productivity of food systems.
- The meeting seeks to strengthen political commitment and accountability for sustainable water management and mobilize investment from governments and the private sector.
