Food processors expand fortification efforts as index grows to 32 firms

NAIROBI, Kenya – Food processing companies have been lauded for their achievements in food fortification and quality assurance, as highlighted by the 2026 Kenya Millers Fortification Index (KMFI) Awards. Organised by the Cereal Millers Association (CMA) in collaboration with TechnoServe and Millers for Nutrition, the awards evaluate processors based on their contributions to enhancing the nutritional quality and safety of everyday food products.

The index, launched in 2022, has expanded from five companies managing 41 brands to 32 companies managing 144 brands in 2026. These companies focus on maize flour, wheat flour, and edible oils, with their products reaching approximately 45 million Kenyans daily.

The assessment is based on a balanced scorecard, considering both operational processes and independent laboratory tests. Operational performance accounts for half of the score, encompassing staff training, raw material procurement, production controls, governance, and consumer engagement. The remaining half is derived from laboratory tests that measure micronutrient levels and product safety.

Several companies received recognition in various categories, including milling and sustainability. Among the edible oil category, Kapa Oil Refineries topped the list, followed by Pwani Oil Products and Vipingo Industries. Paloma Fernandes, the Chief Executive Officer of the CMA, emphasized that the index is fostering increased investment in food fortification and safety while simultaneously bolstering consumer confidence.

Fernandes stated, "Localising the KMFI is not just about moving a programme from one organisation to another. It is about the private sector embracing the initiative, shaping its future, investing in it and making sure it continues long after the initial programme support has ended."

However, CMA Board Chairman Beju Shah pointed out that food manufacturers are currently grappling with a range of challenges. These include rising production costs, overlapping regulations, pending subsidy payments, and delays at ports. The awards come at a time when there are growing concerns about micronutrient deficiencies among Kenyan children. According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, 18 percent of children under five were stunted, while 4 percent experienced wasting and 11 percent were underweight.