The Machakos County government’s Free Feeding and Milk Programme has yielded significant results, with a notable increase in enrollment in Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centers across the county. County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Joyce Mwikali, disclosed this information following the flagging off of the second phase of foodstuff distribution to ECDE centers by Governor Wavinya Ndeti.
Enrollment Uptick:
- Mwikali highlighted the substantial rise in enrollment figures, citing one school that saw a surge from 40 to 100 children since the commencement of the program. This surge underscores the positive impact of providing free meals and milk to children, making education more accessible and attractive to parents.
Commitment to Education:
- Governor Ndeti emphasized her commitment to supporting the academic aspirations of young learners, emphasizing her role as a leader, mother, and mentor. She expressed concern over children missing school due to hunger and reiterated her dedication to ensuring that no child in Machakos County misses out on their educational journey due to lack of meals.
Nutritional Importance:
- Recognizing the significance of proper nutrition for children’s physical and cognitive development, Governor Ndeti affirmed that all ECDE centers would continue receiving milk twice a week. This commitment underscores the county government’s holistic approach to nurturing the well-being of young learners.
Response to Criticism:
- Governor Ndeti addressed criticisms from political opponents, condemning attempts to politicize development programs through propaganda and smear campaigns. She defended the initiative, emphasizing its positive impact on the community and lamenting the tendency of detractors to overlook the government’s efforts in improving livelihoods and education.
Conclusion:
The Machakos County government’s Free Feeding and Milk Programme has not only alleviated hunger among young learners but has also resulted in a surge in ECDE enrollment. Governor Ndeti’s unwavering commitment to education and nutrition underscores the government’s dedication to fostering the holistic development of children in the county. Despite criticisms, the initiative continues to positively impact the lives of Machakos residents, reaffirming the government’s focus on serving the needs of its citizens.