
First Lady urges stronger partnerships to sustain school feeding programs
First Lady Rachel Ruto has called for stronger partnerships to sustain and expand school feeding initiatives in public primary schools across the country.
Speaking at Kachororoni Primary School in Ganze, Kilifi County, where she led the extension the national school milk program, the First Lady urged government agencies, private sector players, and local communities to collaborate in ending hunger in the classroom.
“A packet of milk is power in a child’s hand. Investing a child’s nutrition is investing in Kenya’s future. It serves as a reminder of the positive impact we can have if we work collaboratively,” said the First Lady.
The national school milk program is part of the ‘Feed One End Hunger’ initiative, a flagship program by the Office of the First Lady, which seeks to empower public schools with tools and knowledge to grow their own food through kitchen gardens and orchards.
The First Lady noted that by providing milk to learners and supporting the cultivation of fruits and vegetables within school compounds, the initiative not only addresses malnutrition but also food insecurity while promoting hands-on learning.
“Our mission at feed one end hunger is centered around empowering schools to cultivate and produce their own food sustainably, creating an independent relationship between education and nutrition,” said the first Lady.
“In doing so we aim to turn every public primary school compound into a thriving sanctuary where students can learn about sustainable practices while enjoying fresh healthy meals,” she added.
She lauded 22 pupils from Kachororoni Primary School who have successfully established kitchen gardens at home after learning the skills at school.
“The joy and pride they express in cultivating their own food is a testament to the positive impact our program is having,” she added.
The First Lady was accompanied by Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu, and other local leaders.