The Murang’a county government has initiated a school feeding program where parents contribute only Sh20 per plate for their children.
This program, currently piloted in 55 schools, is conducted in collaboration with the Food 4 Education organization. Food 4 Education provides subsidized meals for vulnerable children in public primary schools to enhance their well-being and academic performance.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata explained that parents approached his administration to replicate the successful Uji program, which provides a cup of porridge daily to over 42,000 ECDE learners, in primary schools.
Under the new initiative, learners will receive a balanced lunch, promoting school attendance and academic focus.
To facilitate this, students will be equipped with digital wristbands for parents to load money via M-Pesa. Kang’ata emphasized that the program is voluntary, aiming to address financial constraints that lead many pupils to skip lunch.
The governor highlighted the program’s potential to create jobs and support local farmers by sourcing food locally. The Sh20 contribution from parents will be supplemented by the county government, ensuring affordable meals for all pupils.
Parents like Anne Wairimu welcomed the initiative, praising its affordability and potential to alleviate their morning food preparation burden. They believe the program will promote equity among students and improve academic performance, particularly among children of low-income families.
“This programme will bring equity among all pupils and give them an equal chance to study and perform better,” she said, adding that a large number of parents in the grassroots are casual labourers with meagre earnings.
