The Treasury recently released the national budget estimates leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of many Kenyans, particularly those concerned with child development. The glaring absence of funding for school feeding programmes sent a clear message: the national government is not prioritising this vital initiative.
However, this doesn't absolve counties of their responsibility. In the face of national neglect, county governments must step up and prioritise their school feeding programmes.
For millions of Kenyan children, especially those in marginalised communities, a daily school meal is not a luxury – it's a lifeline. Hunger pangs are a constant distraction, hindering their ability to concentrate and learn.
Studies have shown a direct correlation between good nutrition and better educational outcomes. Well-fed children are more likely to be enrolled in school, attend regularly and perform well academically.
The benefits extend far beyond the classroom. School feeding programmes can contribute to improved physical health, reduced malnutrition rates and even increased economic productivity in the future.
A 2010 World Bank study found that for every $1 (Sh130.74) invested in school feeding programmes, there's a $3-$9 (Sh392-Sh1,176) return on investment. This economic windfall comes from increased school attendance, improved cognitive development and better future earning potential for programme beneficiaries.
A shining example of success can be found right here in Kenya. Nairobi county, under the leadership of Governor Johnson Sakaja, has implemented a county-wide school feeding programme called 'Dishi na County'.
This initiative provides nutritious meals to students in public primary schools. The programme has been met with resounding praise, with reports of increased school attendance and improved student performance. Nairobi's success story is a testament to the transformative power of school feeding programmes.
While the national government's lack of financial support is a hurdle, it shouldn't be an insurmountable one. Counties have the power to explore alternative funding sources to ensure these programmes continue.
For far too many Kenyan children, hunger is a daily struggle, hindering their ability to learn, grow and reach their full potential. This is where school feeding programmes step in, offering a lifeline of nourishment that fuels not just bodies, but brighter futures.
The benefits of school feeding programmes are undeniable. Studies consistently show a link between these programmes and improved attendance, enrolment and academic performance.
The impact extends beyond individual students. School feeding programmes act as a safety net, reducing poverty by ensuring children from food-insecure households receive at least one nutritious meal a day. This not only improves their health and cognitive development but also frees up household resources for other necessities like education materials.
Funding constraints are a major hurdle. Counties often lack the budgetary resources to support these initiatives on a large scale. Infrastructure deficits further complicate matters.
Many schools lack proper kitchens and dining facilities, making programme implementation a logistical challenge. Additionally, limited capacity within county governments can hinder effective programme management and monitoring.
However, these challenges should not overshadow the immense value of school feeding programmes.
Schoolchildren are the cornerstone of Kenya's future. By ensuring their well-being through proper nutrition, counties are investing in a more educated, productive workforce with the potential to drive national development.
School feeding programmes can help break the intergenerational cycle of poverty. By addressing childhood hunger, these programmes improve children's life chances, leading to better educational attainment and future employment opportunities.
When children from all backgrounds share a nutritious meal at school, it fosters a sense of community and belonging. Additionally, school feeding programmes can incentivize girls' attendance, addressing gender disparities in education.
Counties must allocate a larger share of their budgets to school feeding programmes. This necessitates strategic planning and budget prioritization, recognizing these programmes as an investment in human capital development.
Counties should invest in building and equipping kitchens and dining facilities in schools, particularly in marginalized areas. This can involve public-private partnerships to leverage expertise and resources.
County governments need to strengthen their capacity to manage school feeding programmes effectively. Training and development programmes for relevant personnel can ensure smooth program implementation and monitoring.
Counties can partner with NGOs, the private sector, and international organizations that have experience and expertise in running successful school feeding programmes. This allows for knowledge sharing, resource mobilization, and improved programme sustainability.
@MachelWaikenda
