Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has flagged off a Sh25 million consignment of food for Early Childhood Development and Education learners across the county.
This is in bid to strengthen the foundation of education through improved nutrition and retention.
Speaking during the ceremony, Nyong'o affirmed his administration’s commitment to laying a strong educational foundation by prioritising the needs of ECDE learners.
“Early childhood education is the bedrock of all learning systems globally. Pursuit of education will be futile without a solid ECDE framework,” he said.
Kisumu county currently has 653 ECDE centres, 596 of which are in primary schools and 57 stand-alone public centres.
These institutions serve a total of 43,549 children, comprising 21,698 boys and 21,525 girls.
To enhance access, retention, and overall academic performance, Kisumu county began its school feeding programme in 2015.
The initiative targets children from poor rural and urban slums who are most affected by food insecurity, malnutrition, and stunted growth.
“Good nutrition is part of the learning experience in the early years. That is why we continue to support school feeding by supplying rice and oil to complement the efforts of our parents,” Nyong’o said.
This year’s food consignment includes rice worth Sh16.3 million, beans valued at Sh6.5 million, and cooking oil costing Sh2.2 million.
The food is expected to feed nearly 44,000 learners across public ECDE centres in the county.
Governor Nyong’o said during the 2024-2025 financial year, the county distributed 3,500 bags of rice, 1,080 bags of beans, and 700 tins of cooking oil to support learning.
He promised that the consignment will soon be followed by distribution of learning materials worth Sh19 million, reinforcing the county’s goal of ensuring quality education is both accessible and equitable for every child.
The governor cited Article 53 of the constitution, which guarantees all children the right to free and compulsory basic education, health, and nutrition.
He stressed that a child’s health and nutrition status significantly influence their growth, development, and learning ability.
“Early childhood is a critical phase, where the brain develops rapidly. Providing appropriate health, nutrition, and education during this period determines the child’s future success.”
While acknowledging the magnitude of the task, Nyong’o called upon political leaders, religious groups, individuals, NGOs, and other stakeholders to join hands and support the ECDE agenda.
