Kapu Africa (Midwest Food Bank East Africa) Was fortunate to be a part of World Food Day 2019, an event observed in over 150 countries. Although the date is October 16, MFB was there a day early to participate in meetings and discussions. Christine Mutsoli, Executive Director of Kapu Africa, was part of the 'Policy Dialogue Workshop' whose theme was 'Healthy Diets for a Zero Hunger Kenya'. The key organizations in this meeting were the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Food Program (WFP), the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health and many other organizations. The WFP Head of Donor Relations and Partnerships, Mr Antonio Salort-Pons, was present at the meeting. The Governor of Makueni county was also present. The event discussed the options for improving policy implementation while identifying gaps and more impactful interventions that will help deliver food and nutrition security for the country. Christine spoke about how the nutrition focus needs to also be in the schools and day cares and how schools are an effective place to teach about nutrition and to serve healthy balanced meals.
On the 16th of October, the actual World Food Day Kapu Africa had a booth. Lots of people visited our table and we had a cooking demonstration, and goodies to give out. The Governor and some local officials breezed by and visited a few tables but didn't stop by any tables in our area. However, the FAO officials organized for Kapu Africa to give a presentation in the hall, which actually ended up being a better way to tell others about Tender Mercies, MFB's packaged meal. It was enclosed for better hearing. The hall also included WFP's Mr Antonio, the FAO officials, and government officials. When the short talk on Tender Mercies was done, attendees were given samples and the brochures. Please pray that our message landed on good soil.
20 tonnes of Tender Mercies was donated to distribute and do a cooking demonstration at this event. Many people sampled it and reported liking the taste very much.