The Landscape of Vitamin A Deficiency Mitigation Efforts in Kenya

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) remains a critical public health problem in Kenya, particularly among preschool-aged children. VAD is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness, increases susceptibility to infections, and contributes to premature death. Kenya has implemented multiple interventions, including VA supplementation, food fortification, biofortification of staple crops, and the promotion of diversified diets. However, the effectiveness and equity of these measures require closer examination.

This study synthesizes evidence from three main sources: nationally representative data and policy documents, academic articles and working papers related to VAD in Kenya, and databases from international authoritative organizations. The evidence was analyzed to assess progress and identify policy and implementation gaps for improved VAD intervention in Kenya.

Evidence shows that access to and coverage of Kenya’s VAD interventions remain uneven. VA supplementation has achieved variable coverage, with rural and low-income households less likely to benefit. Food fortification of wheat flour, maize flour, and edible oils has been mandated since 2012, but compliance is inconsistent, particularly among small- and medium-scale millers. Cases of fraudulent practices and non-compliance highlight regulatory loopholes and weak enforcement. A biofortified crop, orange-fleshed sweet potato, has shown promising nutritional impact, whereas biofortified maize and cassava face sensory acceptance issues and market challenges. Consumer awareness of VAD and fortified foods remains low, resulting in insufficient demand.

Policy gaps persist due to uneven access, weak enforcement, low consumer awareness, and reluctance toward adoption. Effective implementation requires stronger monitoring mechanisms and credible penalties for non-compliance, economic incentives for adopters, and intensive promotion of fortified foods and crops through nationwide sensitization campaigns.

Sustained and systematic data collection on VAD prevalence and intervention outcomes is essential for evidence-based policy formulation. Kenya should renew its political commitment to ensure more equitable, accountable, and sustainable VAD mitigation strategies.