Bii targets 40,000 ECD learners with Sh60m milk feeding programme

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii is targeting more than 40,000 children in ECD schools to benefit from a milk feeding programme.

The county has set aside Sh60 million this financial year to start off the project, which is expected to be launched next month.

The department of education has set in motion preparations for the launch of the feeding programme, which has been listed as a flagship project under Governor Bii’s administration.

The programme is targeting all early child development centres across the county to boost enrolment and improve nutrition among children.

Speaking during a meeting with 44 ECDE coordinators and county education officers in Eldoret, education executive Janeth Kosgei said they plan to launch the programme on May 23.

She said it was part of a commitment by Governor Bii’s administration to ensure the needs of children are fully catered to.

“The governor is keen to focus on ECDEs and he has decided to invest heavily in early child learning. He has dedicated a lot of resources starting with the recent confirmation of all ECDE teachers as permanent and pensionable employees,” Kosgei said.

Kosgei said procurement has been finalised and milk is being packaged for the roll out of the project.

“We are set for the launch next month and we have been working well with all those involved in preparations for the event,” Kosgei said. 

The county will source milk from the New Kenya Co-operative Creameries (New KCC).

She said the department is working on data collection to ensure all ECDE centres are ready to handle the milk once the project is rolled out.

“Although we are targeting the current 40,000 ECDE learners in the county, the project also aims to help increase enrolment and retain all the children in schools,”she said.

Director of education Shadrack Morogo and his deputy Pius Mosbei, among other officials, were present.

“Education is a key pillar for the growth of our region just like the entire country and we will do everything possible to ensure that all our children are in schools and they also get milk for their good health,” Bii said.

He said his administration will also ensure that all ECD units have adequate material for learners and their teachers.