New facility to boost food preservation at Kitengela market

DIANA MENETO-KNA

Traders at Kitengela Market in Kajiado County are set to benefit from improved food preservation methods following the launch of a solar-powered cold storage facility aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening livelihoods.

The project was initiated by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) in Nairobi, in partnership with Food Banking Kenya and the Kajiado County Government. It draws inspiration from the Zero Waste Programme championed by Türkiye’s First Lady, Emine Erdoğan.

In a speech read by Environment Secretary, Selly Jemutai Kimosop, on behalf of Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Deborah Mlongo Barasa, the CS said that the initiative demonstrates how climate action can begin at the community level while delivering tangible economic benefits. 

“The facility is expected to play a key role in strengthening Kenya’s food systems by helping farmers and traders preserve fresh produce, improve quality, and secure better returns for their labour.

"It also enhances resilience to climate change and supports the country’s food security agenda,” said the CS.

According to the ministry, Kenya loses between 30 and 40 per cent of its fresh produce annually due to inadequate storage and weak cold chain systems.

These losses translate into reduced incomes for farmers, higher food prices for consumers, and wastage of critical resources such as water, energy, land, and labour.

While appreciating TİKA for its support, Kajiado County Governor Joseph Ole Lenku said the initiative will go a long way in sustaining local businesses.