Kisii University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nathan Ogechi, has called for the preservation and integration of indigenous foods to enhance health outcomes and protect local agricultural heritage.
Speaking during the opening of the 5-day 6th International Nutrition and Dietetics Scientific Conference—jointly organized by Kisii University and the Kenya Nutritionists and Dietitians Institute (KNDI)—Prof. Ogechi emphasized that indigenous food crops remain a strong pillar of human health and nutrition.
"We are also talking about innovation coming in. At the end of the day we are talking about knowledge and preservation of our indigenous food because all our indigenous food are very important especially vegetables," said Prof. Ogechi.
The five-day scientific conference brings together academics, healthcare professionals, policy experts, and researchers to address pressing challenges in regional food systems, dietetics, and public health.
Highlighting the multi-stage agenda of the gathering, Prof. Ogechi noted that the event kicked off with a community outreach initiative to support local residents before moving into academic presentations.
"It will be a five day event that started with a medical camp and we have invited the neighbours to come for medical checkup. Tomorrow scientific papers will be presented which will culminate in serious publications," Prof. Ogechi added.
The joint initiative with KNDI serves as a key platform for showcasing research, driving technological innovations in food value addition, and advancing policy frameworks designed to champion indigenous food preservation across the region.
