Kieni Member of Parliament, Njoroge Wainaina, has called on the government to roll out a nationwide school feeding program to tackle student dropout rates, especially among children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking during a community event, Wainaina highlighted the critical role of such a program in enhancing the country’s education system and ensuring equitable access to education.
“To improve our education system and secure the future of our children, it is imperative for the government, through the Ministry of Education, to allocate funds for free meals in schools,” Wainaina said.
He stressed that providing free meals would encourage student retention, particularly in regions grappling with poverty and food insecurity.
The MP revealed that his constituency has already taken proactive measures to address the issue by implementing a school feeding program in all day schools within Kieni.
This initiative, funded through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), provides nutritious meals to students at an affordable cost, with parents required to contribute just Ksh 1,500 per term.
Under the program, students receive Githeri (a mix of maize and beans) three days a week, rice on the other three days, and Uji (porridge) daily at 10 a.m.
Wainaina confirmed that food supplies for the first term, covering 13 weeks, were successfully delivered to all participating schools.
“This initiative guarantees that over 4,000 students and pupils, who had previously dropped out due to financial difficulties, will now return to school.
This is a clear indication of the program’s positive impact and underscores the urgent need for government intervention to replicate it nationwide,” Wainaina added.
The MP further emphasized the long-term benefits of the feeding program, stating that it not only addresses hunger but also improves concentration, academic performance, and overall well-being among learners.
He urged the Ministry of Education to prioritize the implementation of a nationwide initiative, noting that such a move would significantly contribute to the country’s social and economic development.
As the cost of living continues to rise, Wainaina’s call has resonated with parents and educators, many of whom have expressed support for the proposal.
They believe a nationwide school feeding program would alleviate the financial burden on families while fostering equal opportunities for students from all socio-economic backgrounds.
With Wainaina’s push for change gaining traction, it remains to be seen whether the government will heed his call and take steps to ensure no child is left behind in the pursuit of education.
