Kenya: Summary of the Grant Proposal

(Taken from the FSD webpage.)

The rate of macronutrient malnutrition is high in Kenya and often results in diseases and chronic illnesses that can be expensive to treat with traditional medicines. In many communities macronutrient malnutrition and related diseases can be effectively managed through proper nutrition and use of affordable herbal remedy alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Herbal remedies are particularly powerful as a familiar, effective, and less expensive alternative to other medications. Unfortunately, many community members lack awareness of or access to proper nutrition and herbal remedies.

The Society of Orphans and AIDS Network (SOAN) manage various healthcare, poverty eradication and microfinance initiatives along the Coastal Province of Kenya to prevent and mitigate the impact of AIDS and related opportunistic diseases on communities. FSD intern Edith Han worked with the members of SOAN and other community-based organizations to prepare educational posters and a resource booklet about nutrition and herbal remedies. These tangible resources will support efforts to expand awareness and empower CBO staff and community members to cost-effectively prevent and manage macronutrient malnutrition.

Future FSD interns have the opportunity to address macronutrient malnutrition and subsequent diseases through public awareness and education campaigns. Interns may also work to enhance public access to herbal remedies and the resources needed to improve general nutrition. Those interns with business skills may wish to promote the development and sale of herbal remedies as a business opportunity that supports community health, ensures the proper preparation and use of such remedies, and empowers the community to manage their health with local resources.