Nakuru women and children record increased obesity rate, new report reveals

Obesity rates among children in Nakuru County have seen a worrying increase, rising from 3 to 4 percent in recent years.

Wangui Kihara, the County Nutrition Coordinator, says that although it may seem negligible, infant feeding practices are a key contributor to this.

"The early introduction of commercial complementary foods instead of traditional, home-prepared meals may be fueling childhood obesity," she says, adding that, "Some babies are born with very low or very high birth weights, both of which are risk factors. If we introduce inappropriate foods too early, we are setting them up for health problems later in life."

The expert also warns that growing obesity levels are becoming a major concern, especially among women and female adolescents.

Wangui says this trend reflects a shift in the way malnutrition is showing up in communities.

“We’re seeing worrying trends on both ends. While stunting among children has declined from about 27 percent in 2014 to 18.5 percent in 2022, that’s still a significant number,” she says, adding that despite this, the rising levels of over nutrition among adults are drawing urgent attention.

“Currently, 51 percent of women in Nakuru County are either overweight or obese. Among men, the rate is 22 percent,” Wangui notes. “This is linked to the increase in non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes.”

She explains that the rapid urbanization of Nakuru is a major contributing factor, noting that with urban growth comes greater access to fast food and processed products, as well as reduced physical activity.

“People are walking less, relying more on motorized transport, and consuming unhealthier, ready-made foods. Poor dietary choices, reduced physical activity, and a shift from traditional diets to processed foods have all played a role," she says.

Experts fear the healthcare system may soon be overwhelmed if the trend is not addressed.

Adolescents are also affected, with about 27 percent of teenage girls showing signs of being overweight or obese. 

Wangui emphasizes the need for early interventions through school-based programs and community education on physical activity and balanced diets.

To address the crisis, the county is prioritizing public education campaigns, support for healthy eating, and promotion of active lifestyles.