Cha Kula Podcast

Episode 6: Climate Change | Role of agroecology in Current Food Systems

In this episode of the Cha Kula Podcast, we delve into the repercussions of current food production and consumption on the environment, emphasizing the imperative shift towards agroecological practices in the face of Climate Change. Joining us in the studio are Dr. Anika Molesworth, a farmer, scientist, and advocate known for her contributions to agriculture and climate change awareness, and Sylvia Kuria, a certified organic farmer, trainer, and supporter of small-scale farmers in cultivating their organic kitchen gardens. Agrifood systems persistently grapple with susceptibility to shocks and disruptions stemming from conflict, climate variability, extreme weather events, and economic contractions. Coupled with widening inequalities, these challenges continually test the ability of agrifood systems to provide nutritious, safe, and affordable diets for everyone. The escalating factors contributing to food insecurity and malnutrition have become our 'new normal.' There is no alternative but to intensify our efforts in reshaping agrifood systems, steering them towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Find out more: www.routetofood.org / Join the Route to Food Alliance: routetofood.org/join-alliance/ Follow us on Twitter: @routetofood Friend us on Facebook: @routetofood Questions, comments, opinions? Email us on info@routetofood.org Poster by: Creatives Garage Special thanks to: Creatives garage (Podcast Production; editing & recording).

Episode 5: Navigating the Food Policy Landscape

Our agri-food systems are facing unprecedented challenges, exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, civil conflicts, lack of political will, poverty, inequality, power in a few hands, loss of biodiversity and climate change. These challenges go beyond the immediate need for technological solutions; they demand a nuanced understanding of the political and economic drivers that shape our food systems. In this episode, drawing inspiration from the Political Economy and Policy Analysis (PEPA) sourcebook, produced as part of the CGIAR Research Initiative on National Policies and Strategies. We had the privilege of engaging with the lead authors; Jonathan Mockshell of CIAT & Danielle Resnick of IFPRI. Together, they shed light on the essence of political economy in the realm of food, elucidating why such an understanding is imperative in addressing the multifaceted challenges in our agri-food systems. Find out more: www.routetofood.org Join the Route to Food Alliance: routetofood.org/join-alliance/ Follow us on Twitter: @routetofood Friend us on Facebook: @routetofood Questions, comments, opinions? Email us on info@routetofood.org The PEPA sourcebook can be found here: https://cgspace.cgiar.org/handle/10568/132050 Poster by: Creatives Garage Special thanks to: Creatives garage(Podcast Production).

Episode 4: Redefining Our Plate | A conversation with Lena Luig on the Global Food System

The Global Food System is broken. The food system is a complex web of activities and sectors involving the production, processing, transport, and consumption of food and is best conceptualized as an eco-agri-food-health system. In this episode, Lena Luig, Head of International Agriculture policy Division, Heinrich Boell Stiftung e. V, Berlin explores the multifaceted challenges and complexities of the global food system from corporate control, pesticide trade, and their impact on various aspects of society, with a strong emphasis on the need for change and the importance of supporting alternatives like agroecology. Find out more: www.routetofood.org Join the Route to Food Alliance: routetofood.org/join-alliance/ Follow us on Twitter: @routetofood Friend us on Facebook: @routetofood Questions, comments, opinions? Email us on info@routetofood.org Don't forget to snag your free copy of our latest report on Highly Hazardous Pesticides in the Kenyan Market "Data-and-Facts_Highly-Hazardous-Pesticides-in-Kenya " from the Route to Food website (https://routetofood.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Data-and-Facts_Highly-Hazardous-Pesticides-in-Kenya.pdf) Poster by: Creatives Garage Special thanks to: Creatives garage(Podcast Production).

Episode 3: Enhancing Food Security & Farmer Livelihoods: Where are we?

Join us on this episode of the Cha Kula Podcast as we delve into the critical topic of agricultural development and government policy in Kenya with Eng. Laban Kiplagat from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries and Hon. Agostino Neto, Technical Advisor to the CS of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry. Despite the constitutional right to food for every Kenyan, food insecurity remains a stark reality. In this episode, we explore the actions the government is taking to tackle food insecurity and improve farmer livelihoods in the country. The current administration, under the leadership of His Excellency President William Ruto, made commitments towards the agriculture and food sector, with the aim to transform farmers' lives and ensure food security. Through this engaging episode, we invite you to reflect, consider, and question the government's proposed actions to address food insecurity and malnutrition in Kenya. Find out more: www.routetofood.org / Join the Route to Food Alliance: routetofood.org/join-alliance/ Follow us on Twitter: @routetofood Friend us on Facebook: @routetofood Questions, comments, opinions? Email us on info@routetofood.org Poster by: Creatives Garage Special thanks to: Creatives garage (Podcast Production; editing & recording).

Episode 2: Food as culture, history & identity | How Colonialism Shaped Kenya's Food Culture

Food is an integral part of Kenyan culture, representing a rich tapestry of traditions and heritage. In Kenya, food is not merely sustenance; it holds immense social and cultural significance. Different communities have their distinct cuisines, preparation techniques, and food-related rituals that have been passed down through generations. On this episode, we interviewed Dr. Maundu, an expert from the National Museums of Kenya, who brings a wealth of knowledge on the subject and Darius Okolla, a curator at The Elephant and a renowned writer who has extensively covered food culture. They delved into the fascinating world of Kenyan cuisine, exploring its deep roots in culture and tradition in a thought-provoking discussion on the profound impact of colonialism on culinary and dietary practices in Kenya. Find out more: www.routetofood.org / https://www.theelephant.info/editions/food/ Join the Route to Food Alliance: routetofood.org/join-alliance/ Follow us on Twitter: @routetofood Friend us on Facebook: @routetofood Questions, comments, opinions? Email us on info@routetofood.org Poster by: Creatives Garage Special thanks to: Creatives garage (Podcast Production).