Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises as an entry point for improving diets of consumers in the informal neighborhoods of Africa

The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT is partnering with micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Kenya to improve access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food through innovations in markets, processing and waste management, fostering healthier urban diets.

The 2025 World Food Day theme – “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future” – resonates strongly with the Alliance’s collaborative efforts to drive food systems transformation in low- and middle-income countries. MSMEs play a pivotal role in making nutritious food available, accessible, and affordable—especially for low-income consumers in informal settlements. Working hand in hand with these enterprises fosters an enabling environment for inclusive and sustainable food system change. Below we share insights on some of the Alliance’s work with MSMEs in Africa.