In a proactive and visionary move to secure a sustainable and resilient future for Nakuru County’s food system, the County Executive for Agriculture, Leonard Bor, took the lead in spearheading a comprehensive roundtable discussion on the Foresight for Food System Transformation program (FoSTr). This groundbreaking initiative, financially supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, overseen by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and executed by prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford Environmental Change Institute, Wageningen University, researchers from the University Of Nairobi, and the International Livestock Research Institute, marks a pivotal moment in Nakuru’s commitment to food security and agricultural sustainability.
The FoSTr program aims to delve deep into Nakuru’s current food system dynamics and explore innovative strategies for its transformation. The roundtable discussion, a key component of this program, provided a platform for diverse stakeholders to collaboratively assess Nakuru’s food landscape, identify challenges, and co-create sustainable solutions that align with global best practices.
Leonard Bor, the County Executive for Agriculture, emphasized the importance of sustainability, innovation, market access, education & training, and collaboration in agriculture. Recognizing these pillars as crucial elements for improving various value chains in the county, Bor highlighted that engaging with key stakeholders reflects the collective commitment towards building a sustainable and resilient food system for the people of Nakuru.
The FoSTr program comes at a critical juncture when global food systems are undergoing transformations to address challenges such as climate change, population growth, and evolving dietary patterns. Nakuru County’s proactive involvement in this initiative underscores its dedication to staying ahead of the curve and ensuring that the local food system evolves in harmony with these global shifts.
The roundtable discussion, attended by representatives from government agencies, agricultural organizations, research institutions, and community leaders, facilitated an open dialogue. Participants shared insights, experiences, and recommendations to shape Nakuru County’s future food system. The collaborative effort aims to create actionable plans and tangible outcomes that will not only bolster food security but also enhance the overall well-being of Nakuru’s residents.
This forward-thinking approach aligns with Nakuru County’s broader agenda for sustainable development and complements ongoing efforts to harness agriculture’s potential as a driver of economic growth. By actively engaging with FoSTr, Nakuru County positions itself at the forefront of innovative solutions, laying the groundwork for a resilient and future-proof food system that benefits both present and future generations.
The FoSTr program’s holistic approach, supported by the esteemed consortium of institutions, signifies a robust commitment to transformative change. Nakuru County’s willingness to collaborate, learn, and adapt demonstrates its dedication to ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and fostering resilience in the face of evolving global challenges. As the outcomes of the roundtable discussions unfold, Nakuru County takes a significant stride towards becoming a model for sustainable food systems in the region.
