Abstract:
In Kenya, agri-food systems are often approached from technological, economic, and policy-driven frameworks, with minimal attention given to cultural and social dynamics. Yet, food is deeply cultural embedded in community identities, gender roles, and indigenous knowledge systems. This paper explores the socio-cultural underpinnings that shape Kenya’s agri-food systems. Drawing on qualitative data from rural counties, the study analyzes how traditional ecological knowledge, communal land-use practices, and gendered divisions of labor influence agricul tural production, distribution, and sustainability. The findings underscore the need for inclusive, culturally aware policies that valorize indigenous practices while advancing food security and resilience.