KIAMBU: The Kiambu County government has launched a feeding program aimed at improving nutrition and encouraging school attendance among pupils in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers. The initiative, known as ‘Maziwa Freshi na Wamatangi,’ will provide children with a comprehensive meal plan that includes fortified porridge, eggs, and milk.
According to Kenya News Agency, the program will be implemented across all 524 public ECDE centers in the county. Each child will receive a nutritious bowl of fortified porridge daily, eggs twice a week, and a packet of milk every Thursday. The program’s design is intended to address the nutritional needs of young learners and promote balanced diets that support growth and cognitive development.
Kiambu County’s Governor, Wamatangi, reported a significant increase in the number of learners, rising from 32,000 to 39,000 over the past year. He attributed this growth to the program’s success in attracting children to school and encouraging families to priorit
ize education. In addition to the feeding program, the county government has completed and equipped 109 modern ECDE centers and has begun constructing 130 more facilities to enhance the quality and accessibility of early childhood education.
Parents in the region have expressed support for the initiative, noting its positive impact on their children’s energy levels and overall well-being. Simon Ng’ang’a, a parent in Kiambu town, highlighted the relief the program provides to families struggling to offer balanced meals.
The Kiambu County government aims to create an environment conducive to learning and development, aligning with national efforts such as The National School Meals and Nutrition Strategy. This strategy guides the implementation of school meal initiatives across Kenya, supporting the country’s Vision 2030 and constitutional goals.