INGOLO JOSPHINE ALUKO2026-07-142025-04https://repository.mua.ac.ke/handle/123456789/2928Kenya’s fresh produce supply chain faces significant challenges, including poor market access, inefficiencies in distribution, and high food loss rates, all of which impact food security and nutrition. This research investigated digital supply chain optimization on food security and nutritional outcomes within Kenya’s fresh produce sector. The specific objectives of the study included determining the impact of digital logistics integration, assessing the effects of digital market linkages, and evaluating digital traceability and information sharing’s influence on nutritional food security. The study was grounded under four theories with systems theory being the anchor theory supported by supply chain management integration theory, resource-based view theory, technology acceptance model theory and food security framework. A cross-sectional research approach was used, targeting a study population of 398 respondents obtained using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure representativeness across the different segments. Through qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews with stakeholders, this research determined the efficacy of digital supply chain technologies in mitigating food security and nutrition challenges and enhancing access to nutritious fresh produce. Data gathered was analyzed using statistical techniques, including descriptive and regression analysis to determine the relationship between digital supply chain optimization indices and food security and nutrition indicators. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis while quantitative data was coded and analysed using SPSS version 28 respectively. Data collected was entered into a spreadsheet for summarization and from which relevant tables and figures were populated for presentation. Ethical considerations were also observed during the study. A pilot study was conducted using 40 participants to refine the survey instruments and 319 respondents participated in the survey. The findings revealed that digital logistics integration had the strongest positive impact (β = 0.65, p < 0.001), explaining 42.3% of variance in nutritional food security through improved delivery efficiency and reduced post-harvest losses. Digital market linkages showed significant influence (β = 0.60, p < 0.001), facilitated by mobile platforms like Twiga Foods, Wasoko, Taimba and M-Pesa, though adoption was constrained by low digital literacy (30%) and unreliable internet (45%). Digital traceability systems (e.g., blockchain, IoT) had limited adoption (3.1–4.7%) due to infrastructural barriers, while digital transparency enhanced decision-making but lacked regulatory frameworks. The study concluded that digital supply chain technologies collectively explained 67.2% of nutritional food security variance (R² = 0.672), with affordability and accessibility remaining critical challenges. Recommendations included investing in community Wi-Fi hubs, low-technology traceability solutions (SMS-based systems), and digital literacy programs tailored to Kibra’s low-income population. The research contributed to policy and practice by highlighting scalable interventions to bridge supply chain gaps in urban informal settlements, aligning with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and Kenya’s Food and Nutrition Security Policy. Further investigation is warranted in light of the study's results, recommendations, and conclusion. This additional research should aim to corroborate other factors that were not examined in this study and offer fresh information to validate the current findings.Article