Koneta NGO Expands Community Nutrition and Food Safety Programs in Yei County

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Koneta Hub, a leading national humanitarian and development organization, is scaling up sustainable, community-led nutrition and livelihood programs aimed at tackling malnutrition in Yei River County. Speaking to Access Radio on Tuesday, the organization’s Executive Director, Deneya Denis, said Koneta has developed a strategic, collaborative approach with development partners to strengthen community resilience and improve nutrition outcomes for vulnerable populations in both urban and rural areas. Denis noted that the initiative focuses on promoting nutritious crop production and improving hygiene practices as key pillars in the fight against malnutrition.

“KONETA is working closely with communities to promote sustainable solutions that address malnutrition at the household level,” he said.

According to Denis, the organization’s ongoing activities in Yei River County include Promoting kitchen gardening to enhance household nutrition, supporting peanut and vegetable production to boost local food security, training and empowering Community Nutrition Volunteers, encouraging locally driven solutions to combat malnutrition. These programs are designed to equip families with practical skills to produce and prepare nutritious food while strengthening community participation in addressing nutrition challenges. In addition to livelihood programs, Koneta is actively promoting public health education, particularly on food safety and hygiene. In collaboration with the Yei Public Health Department, the organization commemorated World Food Safety Day 2026 with a live radio talk show aired on Access Radio 88.8 FM on Sunday evening. The program, held under the global theme “From Burden to Solutions  Safe Food Everywhere,” aimed to raise awareness about preventing, detecting and managing foodborne risks. Observed annually on June 7 since 2019, World Food Safety Day highlights the importance of safe food practices in protecting public health. The interactive radio session drew a large audience, including community leaders, farmers, parents, youth and other stakeholders. Participants actively engaged in discussions on food safety and nutrition. Denis emphasized that safe food practices are essential for building healthier communities.

“Safe food saves lives. Proper hygiene is critical in preventing foodborne diseases and ensuring healthier communities,” he said. “As we commemorate World Food Safety Day 2026, let us remember that every meal should nourish and protect health,” Denis added. “From farmers to consumers, each of us has a role to play in ensuring safe food everywhere.”

Through these efforts, Koneta Hub and its partners aim to reduce foodborne illnesses while strengthening community resilience and improving nutrition outcomes. The organization says its integrated approach combining nutrition, agriculture, and health education continues to play a key role in building healthier and more sustainable communities across Yei River County.