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Day 2 of the AERC Summit featured the PASHFARM Regional Policy Engagement Workshop for East Africa which brought together experts, policymakers and researchers to discuss the future of nutrition-sensitive food systems. This session focused on how evidence-based research can influence effective policies that improve access to safe, nutritious and affordable food for vulnerable and low-income populations across the region. Through presentations, open dialogue and policy brief discussions, the workshop aimed to identify clear pathways that support inclusive and gender-responsive food markets in East Africa.

The workshop began with a series of presentations showcasing valuable research outputs from various projects in the region. Insights from initiatives such as Vegetables for All and the CASCADE Project demonstrated how nutrition research is shaping practical actions to improve food systems. Presenters from Ethiopia and Kenya shared significant findings on translating research into policy, emphasizing the role of biofortified foods and addressing gender barriers in informal food markets. These discussions highlighted the urgent need to increase demand and access to nutrient-rich foods while ensuring policies respond to the challenges posed by food price shocks.

Following the research presentations, policy briefs from Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda provided a rich source of evidence for advancing sustainable and healthy foods across East Africa. Experts discussed policy options to address key issues such as gender-sensitive approaches to nutrition, urban market governance and rural household nutrition. These briefs underscored the importance of tailoring interventions to local realities and the diverse needs of different communities. The inclusive nature of these discussions enabled valuable exchanges that brought forward innovative ideas for creating healthier food environments.

The workshop concluded with a high-level policy roundtable that brought together government officials, academics and development experts. This forum provided a platform to deepen conversations on building inclusive, nutrition-sensitive and gender-responsive retail food systems across East Africa. Participants explored practical policy pathways and shared commitments to work collaboratively toward transforming food markets in ways that improve health outcomes for all. The event closed with a clear call for continued research engagement, multisectoral partnerships and policy innovation to sustain momentum in achieving lasting food system change.