Empowering Communities: Insights From The VNR Validation Process Workshop On SDG Engagement
By Ms. Ashley Kitua
The VNR Validation Process workshop, held at Maanzoni Lodge on May 30-31, 2024, provided a platform for civil society organizations to review the delivery of VNR reports. This event followed an initial meeting in March aimed at writing and compiling these reports, emphasizing SDG engagement at the county level. The workshop’s primary focus was to address new and emerging challenges associated with the SDGs, particularly how inclusivity in development plans and policies can ensure no one is left behind. Discussions highlighted the integration of marginalized groups, such as ethnic minorities, women, and persons with disabilities, into development agendas. Although various SDGs were addressed, the primary focus was on Goal 2—zero hunger—supported by success stories from counties like Kajiado and Samburu. The workshop underscored the importance of increased funding and resources for programs targeting marginalized groups and emphasized the government’s role in supporting community empowerment initiatives, advocating for child nutrition policies, and promoting sustainable food production practices.
The workshop also highlighted the intersection of climate change with all 17 SDGs and the critical role of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in reviewing and reporting on SDG progress. CSOs were encouraged to convey key messages to the HLPF to garner support for achieving their goals. A primary message emphasized the need to prioritize child nutrition to save lives and ensure every child reaches their full potential, backed by evidence from the Global Nutrition Report, which indicates that one in three children under five is malnourished. The impact on achieving SDG 2 was linked to addressing child malnutrition, with success stories like Brazil’s school meal programs demonstrating the positive outcomes of such initiatives. The call to action urged the HLPF to advocate for policies that ensure children have access to safe and nutritious foods, particularly in schools.
