Operationalizing Food System Governance: The Case of Fort Portal Food Change Lab

Transforming the current food system into one which delivers healthy, sustainable diets will require some form of governance. Due to complex nature system, multi-stakeholder platforms (MSPs), bring together actors from multiple sectors a shared space for joint decision making, have been proposed as potential governance structure. Using Food Change Lab, platform led by local civil society organization in Fort Portal, Uganda, case study, this paper uses an explicit conceptual framework understand how such MSP can support improved outcomes. Local-level, civil-society-led MSPs limited ability system-based problem framing, due tension between holistic view and identifying concrete entry points action. They boundary spanning creating horizontal linkages but are less effective vertical their locally embedded nature. Because not dependent on formal policy processes, they be very adaptable flexible prioritizing issues focus areas. The greatest influence is supporting inclusiveness, especially marginalized voices. While unlikely able achieve transformation alone, do play key role engaging with groups, inclusion promoting alternative visions.