Sanku opens new office, celebrates four years of fighting hidden hunger in Kenya

KENYA –  Sanku, a social enterprise working to combat hidden hunger through food fortification, has officially opened its new warehouse and office facility at Nairobi Gate Industrial Park, marking a major milestone in its mission to combat micronutrient deficiencies across the country.

The event, held on June 24, also celebrated the organisation’s four-year anniversary in Kenya and its impact in reaching over 10 million Kenyans daily with fortified flour.

Located on the Eastern Bypass, the new offices will serve as a strategic hub for Sanku’s expanding operations, enabling it to scale up production, support millers more effectively, and further strengthen its supply of fortified staple foods nationwide.

According to Sanku, its countrywide model is anchored in food fortification, a proven public health strategy that involves adding essential vitamins and minerals to everyday staples like maize and wheat flour.

The organisation has worked in close collaboration with Kenya’s Ministry of Health, county governments, development agencies, and the private sector since 2020 to support the national fortification agenda.

“We’re proud to have reached this milestone. The opening of this facility will help us support more millers, deliver high-quality premix, and expand access to fortified foods in every part of the country,” said Felistus Mutambi, Sanku’s Senior Partnerships and Government Relations Manager.

Key to Sanku’s model is the Sanku Dosifier, an IoT-enabled device that automatically adds precise amounts of iron, zinc, folic acid, and other micronutrients during milling. The company has deployed over 160 of these dosifiers across Kenya, primarily supporting small and medium-scale millers.

“Our dosifiers are reliable, user-friendly, and compliant with Kenya’s fortification regulations.They eliminate the guesswork for millers and ensure communities get the nutrition they need,” Mutambi added.

In addition to the technology, Sanku provides a consistent and affordable supply of premix that meets regulatory requirements. This holistic support system is what sets Sanku apart, according to Co-Founder and CEO Felix Brooks-church.

“Sanku is providing a scalable solution centred on quality production. Our ‘special sauce’ is the highest-quality premix that ensures vital nutrients and vitamins are getting into people’s bodies. Without the right blend, we don’t achieve our mission,” said Brooks-church.

The official opening was attended by key stakeholders including representatives from Nutrition International, IDE Kenya, the Fortified Whole Grain Alliance, and the Kiambu County Government.

Millers from across the country, ranging from small-scale processors to companies like UNGA Limited, Harvest Mills, and Kilimambogo Millers, were also present, underscoring the critical role of public-private collaboration in Kenya’s nutrition efforts.

Sanku’s work contributes to reducing anaemia, neural tube defects, stunting, and other nutrition-related health issues. Its presence in underserved regions ensures fortified flour reaches those most in need.

“There’s still a long way to go. But by supporting millers at every level, we’re making fortified flour accessible even in the most remote areas,” said Mutambi.

Looking ahead, Sanku plans to expand its footprint, deepen existing partnerships, and continue innovating to build a future where every Kenyan has access to safe, nutritious food.

“Nutrition is not just about food, it’s about dignity and opportunity,” said Teresia Njoroge, Kiambu County Director of Public Health.

According to her, every Kenyan deserves a healthy start. “This new facility is a testament to what’s possible when innovators, government, and communities come together.”

With its new base of operations, Sanku is poised to strengthen its contribution to Kenya’s nutrition goals and reaffirm its long-term commitment to eradicating hidden hunger in Africa.

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