Nutrition-Related Non-Communicable Disease and Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Policies: A Landscape Analysis in Kenya
Loading...
Date
2021
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Global Health Action
Abstract
Background: The burden of undernutrition is significant in Kenya. Obesity and related noncommunicable
diseases are also on the increase. Government action to prevent noncommunicable
diseases is critical. Taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages has been identified
as an effective mechanism to address nutrition-related non-communicable diseases, although
Kenya is not yet committed to this.
Objective: To assess the policy and stakeholder landscape relevant to nutrition related non -
communicable diseases and sugar-sweetened beverage taxation in Kenya.
Methods: A desk review of evidence and policies related to nutrition related noncommunicable
diseases and sugar-sweetened beverages was conducted. Data extraction
matrices were used for analysis. Key informant interviews were conducted with 10 policy
actors. Interviews were thematically analysed to identify enablers of, and barriers to, policy
change towards nutrition-sweetened beverage taxation.
Results: Although nutrition related non-communicable diseases are recognised as a growing
problem in Kenya most food-related policies focus on undernutrition and food security, while
underplaying the role of nutrition related non-communicable diseases. Policy development
on communicable diseases is multi-sectoral, but implementation is biased towards curative
rather than preventive services. An excise tax is charged on soft drinks, but is not specific to
sugar-sweetened beverages. Government has competing roles: advocating for industrial
growth, such as sugar and food processing industries to foster economic development, yet
wanting to control nutrition related non-communicable diseases. There is no national consensus
about the dangers posed by sugar-sweetened beverages.
Conclusion: Nutrition related non-communicable diseases policies should reflect
a continuum of issues, from undernutrition to food security, nutrition transition, and the
escalation of nutrition related non-communicable diseases. A local advocacy case for sugarsweetened
beverage taxation has not been made. Public and policy maker education is
critical to challenge the prevailing attitudes towards sugar-sweetened beverages and the
western diet.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Diet, politics, actors, industry tactics, data review, policy review
Citation
Wanjohi et al. (2021): Nutrition-Related Non-Communicable Disease and Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Policies: A Landscape Analysis in Kenya.: Global Health Action.: https://doi.org/10.1080/16549716.2021.1902659