In the past five months, Mombasa County has witnessed a fantastic 20 percent increase in the enrolment of Early Childhood Development (ECD) pupils. And you know what they say: a full tummy equals a focused mind. This significant growth can be attributed to the launch of the school feeding program by none other than Governor Abdulswamad Nassir himself.
Mombasa takes the crown as the first county to implement a free school feeding initiative in public schools, we also have Nairobi county with a similar initiative dubbed dishi na county. This incredible program operates from a single kitchen, which was constructed in collaboration with a strategic partner at the Pwani School for the Disabled. It’s a hub of deliciousness and compassion!
Picture this: 8,610 learners across all 30 wards of Mombasa County get to enjoy a hearty meal every day thanks to the County Government and Food for Education. The program specifically targets Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers in 96 locations. That’s a lot of little tummies being nourished!
The meals served in these centers consist of wholesome grains and cereals, ensuring that the children receive the nutrition they need to thrive. It’s not just about filling their bellies; it’s about nourishing their minds and bodies for a brighter future.
During an inspection tour of Bamburi and Mlaleo ECD Centers, Governor Abdulswamad emphasized the importance of offering free lunch to students. He passionately expressed, “Education is a young person’s single best chance at changing their life. Through education, you can rise from anywhere to become the greatest of the great. My administration promised to empower our future generations with education by providing free lunch, which will ensure they can concentrate during the learning day, and we delivered.” Talk about a leader who truly understands the power of education and the impact it can have on young minds!
But the story doesn’t end here. Governor Abdulswamad has even more ambitious plans for expanding the program. The administration aims to include community schools and those operating within informal settlements. To achieve this goal, they are planning to construct three additional kitchens, each with the capacity to serve ten thousand meals a day. That’s a lot of pots and pans!
The “Msosi Skuli” initiative is a shining example of how education and nutrition go hand in hand. By providing free meals, Mombasa County is creating an environment where students can focus on their studies, grow, and thrive. Kudos to Governor Abdulswamad and his team for their commitment to empowering the future generation through education and a full tummy.
