Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir with learners
from different schools within the county at his office on Monday /BRIAN OTIENO
Public primary schools in Mombasa will benefit from the feeding programme as the county plans to extend the initiative beyond Early Childhood Development and Education centres.
Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Monday said the move is aimed at boosting education outcomes and easing the financial burden on parents.
The county government provides free daily meals to learners in all 97 ECDE centres under the ‘Food for Education’ programme. However, the existing central kitchen can only cater for ECDE learners.
“We are constructing another kitchen so we can expand this programme to the rest of the primary school classes. The current facility is too small,” Nassir said.
He spoke at his office while sending off 1,120 learners from 28 primary schools, vocational training centres and ECDEs who are headed to the national music festivals in Meru county. The county has sponsored the participants at a cost of Sh2.5 million.
The governor urged them to represent the county with pride and to win over hearts through their performances.
He added that his administration is committed to supporting quality education and reducing the financial strain on families.
“All secondary school learners in Mombasa receive a Sh5,000 annual stipend from the county government. We hope to increase this amount next year, with the long-term goal of making education in Mombasa fully free.”
While Mombasa may not compete with other counties in terms of student population, it must lead in education quality, Nassir said.
“We may be small in numbers, but we want to be top in quality. That’s why we’re revamping daycares, ECDE centres, primary and secondary schools,” the governor said.
The county also offers full sponsorship to primary school learners who perform well in their national exams and transition to secondary school, covering their four years of education.
“We have done our part as a government. Now, it’s up to you—the teachers—to do the rest,” Nassir said.
Nassir revealed that funds from liquor and miraa (muguka) licences are being channelled into the county’s education sector to sustain the various programmes.
Currently, 430 learners are attending boot camps at Shimo la Tewa Secondary and Mama Ngina Girls High School, where they are being trained in leadership and life skills.
“During the holidays, many of these learners would be idle and exposed to negative influences. These programmes are designed to keep them safe and productive,” the governor said.
Education CEC Mbwarali Kame reaffirmed the county’s commitment to improving education quality through holistic and impactful initiatives.
Sacred Heart Primary School headteacher Joyce commended the county for easing the workload on school heads through the ECDE feeding and capitation programme.
“It makes a big difference when children don’t have to go home hungry or be sent away for school fees.”
She praised the bursary programme for secondary learners and the mentorship camps, saying they help keep students focused and away from harmful behaviours.
The headteacher also lauded the ‘Skills Mitaani’ initiative, which helps nurture talents among children and the youth.
“Teachers are the real change-makers. With the right support, we can shape the future of our children,” she said.
