Children as young as five are taking the lead in shaping healthier futures for their communities through creative innovations showcased at the Health and Nutrition Hackathon held at Ahero Resource Centre in Kisumu County.
The event, which brought together 10 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres from Kadibo Sub-County, offered a platform for learners to present child-led solutions aimed at improving nutrition and food security in flood-prone areas.
From colourful kitchen gardens and poetry to fashion designs made from locally sourced materials, the young innovators proved that children can play an active role in promoting healthy lifestyles and climate resilience.
Funded by the French Embassy in Kenya and UNICEF, the hackathon was implemented in partnership with the Kisumu County Government and the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS).
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community recovery and ensure that children affected by flooding have access to nutritious, affordable meals.
Kisumu County Executive Committee Member for Education, John Awiti, praised the learners’ creativity and emphasised the importance of nurturing innovation from an early age.
“Children must be equipped with sustainability lessons that empower them to find solutions to challenges linked to nutrition, climate, and education,” said Awiti.
KRCS Nyanza Regional Director, Maurice Anyango, said the hackathon aligned with the broader goal of helping children “thrive, survive, and meet their potential.”
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Kisumu County Nutrition Coordinator, Rael Mwando, explained that the event is part of a one-year response program addressing malnutrition in flood-affected communities, following a survey that revealed poor dietary quality in Ogenya and Anyuro areas.
The hackathon featured five creative categories — fashion show, poems, songs, kitchen gardens, and recipe innovations — all based on the theme “Healthy and Affordable Meals.”
Through play, art, and innovation, the children demonstrated that even the youngest minds can drive change — transforming simple ideas into practical, sustainable solutions for healthier and more resilient communities.
By Philip Koech
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