First Lady Rachel Ruto Launches Nationwide Mama Kitchen Garden Initiative

By George Kimwaki

Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, officially launched the Mama Kitchen Garden Initiative, a nationwide program aimed at empowering women and children through household food security.

The launch event took place on May 14, 2025, at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) in Koibatek, Baringo County.

“We are on a mission to give mothers the power to increase household vegetable intake by helping them establish thriving kitchen gardens for their families,” said the First Lady.

She emphasized that the initiative will promote healthy living and build stronger futures for Kenyan families.
“‘Mama Kitchen Garden’ will give every woman the pride and joy that comes from knowing her family is well-fed,” she added.

Mrs. Ruto noted that hunger and malnutrition remain major challenges to education, health, and overall development in Kenya.
“You cannot teach a hungry child,” she stated, urging the country to embrace kitchen gardens in homes and schools. She explained that these green spaces would serve as sources of both nutrition and learning.