Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has endorsed a proposed national school feeding policy, positioning his county’s existing Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) porridge program as a successful model for nationwide adoption.
Speaking during stakeholder deliberations in Mombasa on the Pre-Primary Model School Feeding Policy, Lusaka said Bungoma’s initiative has driven a notable increase in school enrolment and improved learning outcomes across early learning centres.
“No child should be left behind due to hunger,” said Lusaka, calling on county leaders to support the emerging framework, which is being developed collaboratively by the Council of Governors, the Senate, the National Government, and non-profit partner Food4Education.
ALSO READ:
Politician urges National Govt to consolidate all bursary programmes
The policy, expected to be launched at the 2025 Devolution Conference in Homa Bay, aims to standardize and scale school meal programs across all 47 counties. It seeks to combat classroom hunger, lower dropout rates, and support holistic child development from the foundational education level.
Lusaka commended the Council of Governors and its partners for what he called “a bold and united step toward nourishing young minds and securing Kenya’s future.”
According to Bungoma education officials, the county’s porridge program has led to more than a 20 percent rise in ECDE enrolment since its rollout. Teachers also report improvements in pupils’ concentration, energy, and general health.
ALSO READ:
A better staffroom, a better school: It’s time to uplift teacher spaces
The Mombasa meeting brought together governors, county education executives, nutrition experts, civil society groups, and donor representatives to align on the policy’s structure. Discussions focused on ensuring the model supports local agriculture, meets nutritional standards, and remains financially feasible for counties.
The Pre-Primary School Feeding Policy is widely viewed as a cornerstone investment in Kenya’s human capital development and a key step toward equitable access to education nationwide.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
