Kenya Grapples With Triple Burden of Child Malnutrition

Nairobi — Kenya is facing a growing public health crisis as it battles a triple burden of malnutrition among children: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and an alarming rise in overnutrition – including overweight and obesity.

According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), 3% of children under five are overweight, with the highest rates recorded in Nyeri, Nyamira, Kisii, and Nairobi counties, each reporting prevalence rates of 6%.

The trend extends into adolescence,…