Kiambu County Governor Kimani Wamatangi has launched a county-wide school feeding program that is transforming the lives of thousands of young learners.
The decisive effort aims to combat child hunger and strengthen early childhood education,
Under the banner “Maziwa Freshi na Wamatangi”, the county now provides fortified porridge every morning, eggs twice a week, and a packet of milk every Thursday to more than 39,000 children enrolled in all 524 public Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres across Kiambu County.
The programme, since its rollout, it has had a profound impact—ECDE enrolment has surged from 32,000 to over 39,000 learners in just one year. Parents and teachers alike are noticing the difference.
“My daughter is more active, she never wants to miss school anymore,” shared Mary Wanjiru, a parent from Githunguri. “She talks about the porridge every day. I’ve also noticed she’s more alert even at home.”
Governor Wamatangi says the initiative was designed with a dual purpose: to nourish children and create a better learning environment. “The meal plan addresses the nutritional needs of our young learners, reinforcing the importance of balanced diets for their growth and cognitive development,” he stated.
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County Executive Committee Member for Health, Dr. Elias Maina lauds the programme, emphasizing that early nutrition is vital for long-term health outcomes.
“Proper nutrition in early childhood is key for brain development, physical growth, and immunity,” Dr. Maina said. “This program is not just feeding children it’s securing their future.”
In line with this, the Kiambu County Government has embedded the feeding initiative into a proposed ECDE Bill currently under review in the County Assembly.
If passed, the legislation will legally mandate the provision of daily porridge, eggs, and milk to all ECDE learners public and private ensuring the program’s sustainability beyond the current administration.
According to Wamatangi, the county is sourcing porridge flour from local millers and buying eggs from women farmers located near ECDE centers. This local sourcing model not only maintains food quality and affordability but also boosts local economies and empowers smallholder producers.
Teachers report a noticeable difference in class performance and attendance. “We’ve seen less fatigue, more focus, and better class participation,” said Nyambura, an ECDE teacher in Lari. “The children are motivated to come to school, and they stay attentive longer.”
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“Strict guidelines have been put in place to ensure the safety and nutritional balance of the meals, with nutritionists working closely with the county to design child-friendly menus. The initiative is a coordinated effort involving the county government, healthcare providers, educators, and parents.” He said
Backed by global data from organizations like the World Bank and World Food Programme, school feeding programs are known to reduce dropout rates, boost school attendance, and improve overall learning outcomes, particularly in low-income settings. When these programs are locally sourced, they also contribute to rural development and food security.
According to Wamatangi, So far, 109 modern ECDE centres in Kiambu have been equipped and another 130 are under construction. He further revealed that plans are underway to recruit additional ECDE teachers and improve their compensation in collaboration with the national government.
Ultimately, this initiative is about more than meals. It is about giving every child in Kiambu the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream regardless of their background.
As the county moves forward with legal safeguards and local sourcing, Kiambu’s model is gaining recognition as a blueprint for other regions in Kenya, and possibly beyond.
“We are building the foundation for a better future, one bowl of porridge at a time,” Governor Wamatangi said.
By Felix Njenga
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