The Nairobi County Government has approved a new school feeding policy that will make the Dishi Na County programme a permanent service in public schools across the city.
The decision was made on after the County Executive approved the Nairobi City County School Feeding Policy, giving the popular programme long-term legal and financial backing.
Under the policy, the county will draft a School Feeding Bill to anchor the programme in law. It will also set aside dedicated funds in the county budget and establish a School Meals Unit to oversee food quality, logistics and daily operations.
The programme is expected to expand further, with at least 20 more public schools in informal settlements set to benefit from the next school term. Nairobi County also plans to increase the number of central kitchens from the current 17 to 69 to allow full coverage across the city.
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Governor Johnson Sakaja speaking during the executive meeting said the policy ensures that no child will be denied a meal because they cannot afford the small daily contribution.
“A hungry child cannot learn. By securing school meals in law, we are securing the future workforce and leadership of this city,” Sakaja said.
Since its launch in 2023, Dishi Na County has grown into one of the largest school feeding programmes in the country. It currently provides meals to more than 316,000 learners every school day in over 230 public primary schools and ECDE centres.
County officials say making the programme permanent will improve school attendance, boost concentration in class and reduce the burden on parents, especially those living in low-income areas.
By Benedict Aoya
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