Transforming food systems in Kenya: A collaborative learning journey

In 2025, Akvo Kenya Foundation played a central role in accelerating food systems transformation by facilitating the Kenyan engagement in the Netherlands Food Partnership (NFP) Food Systems E-Course. Developed in partnership with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), this dynamic and practical learning experience equipped professionals with systems thinking tools to strengthen food value chains, nutrition, and food security. The initiative culminated in a powerful closing event, bringing together local and international stakeholders to reflect, share, and strategise for a more sustainable future.


Partners

Netherlands Food Partnership


Sector

Agriculture


Services

Capacity building


Location

Kenya

The challenge

Despite the availability of digital learning opportunities, many agrifood professionals in Kenya - particularly those in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) - struggle to integrate food systems thinking into their daily work. The lack of contextualised, hands-on support hinders their ability to contribute meaningfully to food systems transformation. There was a pressing need for tailored, in-country engagement to bridge the gap between online learning and real-world application.

 

The solution

Akvo Kenya Foundation addressed this challenge by identifying and supporting 55 participants (27 women, 28 men) from its network and partner organisations to enroll in the NFP e-course. Beyond online learning, Akvo facilitated targeted, practical follow-up activities in Kenya, including:

  • Situation analysis (rich picture & stakeholder analysis),
  • Food system mapping,
  • Exploring leverage points, and
  • Developing entry points for action.

Special attention was given to participants from Isiolo, Samburu, and Nairobi counties, with 16 individuals receiving ongoing support throughout the course. The initiative concluded with a final event in Nairobi hosted by Akvo, aligning with Kenya’s national food systems dialogues and amplifying local voices in broader discussions.

Above: Stakeholders and participants of the e-course in Kenya

The impact

This initiative significantly enhanced the capacity of Kenyan agrifood professionals to apply food systems thinking in their work. Participants reported improved confidence in engaging stakeholders and designing context-sensitive interventions. The programme also strengthened partnerships among organisations such as Foresight4Food, Africa Food Fellowship, and eProd Solutions.

Additionally, the experience laid a strong foundation for improved accessibility and relevance of future e-course editions, with Akvo actively contributing to this process. The collaborative momentum generated through this effort continues to drive forward the goal of building inclusive, innovative, and sustainable food systems in Kenya.