Scaling Up Nutrition Youth Network

Introduction

The SUN Youth Network-Kenya is part of the global Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) movement, a country-led initiative launched in 2010 to combat malnutrition in all its forms. Kenya joined SUN in 2012 and established six networks, including the Youth Network, which convenes, coordinates, and builds the capacity of youth, youth-led, and youth-serving organizations to champion nutrition and food security. Anchored on the principles of the SUN movement and aligned with Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063, the Network promotes learning, healthy habits, youth participation in food systems, and effective partnerships for equity and wellbeing. Chaired by the Organization for African Youth (OAY), the Network is a key driver of Kenya’s efforts toward a malnutrition-free future.

Malnutrition remains a critical challenge in Kenya, impacting the health and productivity of millions, particularly adolescents and youth who comprise 75% of the population. Recognizing the pivotal role young people play in shaping sustainable food systems, the SUN Youth Network was established to mainstream youth engagement in food security and nutrition initiatives. Building on Kenya's Youth Development Policy and SUN's global strategies, the Network addresses social and nutritional challenges through inclusive and collaborative approaches, contributing to Kenya’s Vision 2030 and global development goals.

Objectives

1. To mainstream Meaningful Adolescent and Youth engagement (MAYE) in food systems in Kenya.
2. To coordinate youth, Youth-led, and youth-serving organizations to meaningfully advocate for and drive the nutrition and food security agenda in line with Sustainable Development Goals.
3. To enhance the capacity of youth, Youth-led, and youth-serving organizations on the nutrition agenda and promote learning at different levels.
4. To promote and amplify youth innovations and social enterprises contributing to improved food systems.
5. To promote healthy habits and well-being among the youth.

What We’re Doing (and Have Done So Far)

• Conducted capacity-building workshops for youth and youth-serving organizations.
• Organized engagements with global and local SUN stakeholders to establish youth participation mechanisms.
• Coordinated participation in nutrition and food system conferences and decision-making processes.
• Developed an action plan to integrate youth into Kenya's food security agenda.

Impact

The SUN Youth Network-Kenya has trained youth-led organizations and education institutions to advocate for nutrition, increased youth representation in decision-making platforms, and amplified innovative solutions in food systems. It has strengthened collaboration among stakeholders, influencing policies to prioritize youth in Kenya’s nutrition agenda.

Who This Project Helps

The Network benefits adolescents, youth-led organizations, and communities across Kenya by improving nutrition education, creating advocacy opportunities, and fostering economic empowerment through food systems innovations.