Governor Sakaja says Dishi na County initiative to be streamlined! Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced the implementation of robust governance structures to effectively manage the ‘Dishi na County’ school feeding programme. This initiative aims to ensure that the programme not only meets the nutritional needs of students but also encourages community involvement through donations from Kenyans of goodwill.
The governor’s commitment to enhancing this initiative was articulated during the Global School Meals Coalition ministerial meeting held in Nairobi on Tuesday.
Establishing Governance Structures
To bolster the effectiveness of the ‘Dishi na County’ programme, Governor Sakaja revealed plans to establish a board and a secretariat. These entities will oversee the initiative, ensuring efficient management and operation. This structured approach is designed to enhance transparency and accountability, ultimately building trust among contributors and stakeholders.
Sakaja highlighted the eagerness of Nairobi residents to support the programme financially, stating, “Nairobians are now asking how they can pay by M-Pesa to support one child or five children.” This sentiment reflects a strong community desire to contribute to the well-being of schoolchildren, reinforcing the programme’s sustainability through local support.
Impact on School Enrollment
Launched 14 months ago, the ‘Dishi na County’ programme has made significant strides in improving school attendance and enrollment in Nairobi. According to Governor Sakaja, the initiative has resulted in a remarkable 34 percent increase in school enrollment. This rise is attributed to the assurance that children will receive at least one nutritious meal daily, which is crucial for their concentration and overall academic performance.
To measure the programme’s impact, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine are conducting a three-year study. This independent evaluation will provide critical insights into the programme’s effectiveness and inform future strategies for enhancing student nourishment.
Milestones Achieved
Governor Sakaja proudly announced that the ‘Dishi na County’ programme has reached a significant milestone of 30 million meals served within its first 14 months. This achievement illustrates the scale and effectiveness of the initiative, which has provided nourishment to over 310,000 students across 230 public schools in 17 subcounties of Nairobi.
The governor emphasized that the programme is particularly transformative for students in informal settlements, where access to nutritious meals is often limited. “Dishi Na County aims to reach even more schools and has already provided over 30 million meals at an affordable cost of just five shillings,” Sakaja stated. Notably, no child is denied a meal due to inability to pay, thanks to the support from partners and the national government.
Economic Opportunities for Local Communities
Beyond its primary focus on student nourishment, the ‘Dishi na County’ programme has also created economic opportunities for local farmers and vendors. By sourcing food from local producers, the initiative supports Kenya’s agricultural sector and stimulates the local economy.
Governor Sakaja pointed out, “Thousands of Kenyans now earn a living because of ‘Dishi Na County.’ We buy produce from our farmers across the country and have employed thousands to make this program work.”
This multifaceted approach not only addresses hunger but also empowers local communities by providing livelihoods and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Presidential Support and National Importance
During the ministerial meeting, President William Ruto commended Nairobi County for its impressive efforts in supporting school feeding programmes. He remarked, “I am very proud of what Nairobi County is doing in feeding our learners.
Food for Education has done a remarkable job to provide for them.” The president underscored the initiative’s role in fostering a conducive learning environment for students, highlighting its importance in Kenya’s education strategy.
Conclusion
The ‘Dishi na County’ school feeding programme exemplifies a successful model for addressing hunger, improving school enrollment, and fostering community engagement in Kenya. Under Governor Sakaja’s leadership, the initiative not only nourishes students but also contributes to local economies by supporting farmers and vendors.
As the programme continues to expand, it is poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of children in Nairobi, ensuring that every child has access to nutritious meals and the opportunity to thrive academically. Through collaborative efforts and sustainable practices, ‘Dishi na County’ sets a precedent for future educational initiatives across the nation.
