11,000 Nyando learners to benefit from free school feeding scheme

ROBERT OJWANG’-KNA

More than 11,000 learners in 24 public day schools across Nyando Constituency, Kisumu County, are set to benefit from a new government programme providing free school meals and emergency education support.

The initiative was launched by Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, and Children Services, Hanna Cheptumo, at Lela Mixed Secondary School.

She noted that the programme is designed to protect vulnerable learners and ensure that no child attends school hungry.

Cheptumo emphasized that the programme reflects the government’s commitment to child protection, inclusive education, and safeguarding the future of young people in disaster-prone areas.

Nyando has been severely affected by recurring floods and droughts, which have disrupted learning and contributed to hunger, poor health, absenteeism, school dropouts, child labour, and early marriages.

A recent assessment revealed a nine per cent decline in student enrolment in Nyando Sub-County, largely due to flood-related displacement and prolonged absenteeism. 

“Many learners are emotionally distressed and struggling to remain in school. A child who is hungry, displaced, or traumatized cannot learn. A child without protection is exposed to exploitation, which compromises their education,” Cheptumo said.

To counter these challenges, the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services will roll out mentorship and psychosocial support programmes to help learners overcome trauma, rebuild confidence, and stay motivated to complete their education.

The initiative also provides dignity kits for both girls and boys, ensuring that learners continue their studies in a safe and supportive environment.

As part of the intervention, the national government, through the State Department for Children Services, the State Department for Special Programmes, and the Child Welfare Society of Kenya, donated substantial relief supplies to schools in Nyando.