EU-funded AfriFOODlinks project delivers research-driven, community-led solution for over 200 fish vendors at Obunga Market to boost food safety and Health in Kisumu county
OBUNGA, Kisumu June 3, –The African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), in partnership with the City of Kisumu, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), and the Kisumu County Government, have today officially launched a cold room facility at Obunga (Pap Mbuta) Market in Kisumu.
The facility, constructed under the EU-funded AfriFOODlinks project, is a significant step in addressing food safety, post-harvest losses, and public health risks in informal food markets.
Obunga Market—home to over 200 fishmongers, many of whom sell mgongo-wazi (fish by-products)—has long struggled with a lack of safe, reliable food storage infrastructure.
“Our research revealed that three-quarters (75%) of vendors reported having no access to cooling facilities,” said Dr. Beatrice Kiage, Research Scientist at APHRC, while stressing that: “This cold room directly responds to those needs.”
In her remarks, Dr. Elizabeth Kimani, Senior Research Scientist; Lead – Nutrition and Food Systems Unit | Head – Health and Wellbeing Theme, emphasised the role of research in informing real-world solutions:
“This cold room is not just infrastructure—it’s evidence in action. It reflects what’s possible when community needs, research, and policy come together to build healthier, more resilient food systems.”
The facility is expected to significantly reduce fish spoilage and wastage, improve hygiene and food safety, and enable vendors to increase earnings by preserving their products for longer periods.
It also represents a strategic intervention to address growing concerns about public health and contamination risks in urban markets.
Speaking at the launch, the City Manager of Kisumu, Abala Wanga, affirmed the city’s commitment to collaborative food system transformation.
“We appreciate the AfriFOODlinks Project team for identifying this market as a priority site. This cold room will go a long way in improving the quality of food sold in this market.”
He said that Obunga Pap Mbuta Market is a special place supporting the livelihoods of over 200 traders from the Obunga neighbourhood.
“We still require more infrastructure upgrades and better planning. This facility is a strong step toward improving the business environment.”
The cold room launch is part of the broader AfriFOODlinks project to improve food and nutrition security in African cities while delivering positive climate and environmental outcomes.
