Ruto commends efforts to combat hunger in schools

The need for expanded initiatives to combat hunger in schools is urgent, as the impact of nutrition on learning cannot be overstated.

On Monday, October 29, President William Ruto praised Wawira Njiru, founder and executive director of Food for Education, for her contributions to the fight against childhood hunger.

“Investing in our children’s nutrition is investing in the future of our nation. We must work together to ensure that every child has access to healthy meals,” he said.

Ruto acknowledged initiatives like the Dishi Na County School Feeding Program, which he said serves 310,000 learners in Nairobi.

Njiru noted that Food for Education aims to feed one million pupils by 2027, aligning with the National School Meals Coalition’s goal to expand programmes from 2.6 million to over 10 million beneficiaries by 2030.

“Our mission is clear: no child should learn on an empty stomach. Every meal we serve is a step towards ensuring that children can focus on their education without the distraction of hunger,” she noted.

The Dishi Na County programme provided 30 million meals in 2024, resulting in a 34 per cent increase in school enrollment since its inception.

Since 2012, Food for Education has delivered hot, nutritious meals to empower students.

The organisation now serves over 450,000 meals daily across 1,263 schools, with a vision to reach 3 million children by 2030.

Njiru’s efforts aim to eliminate classroom hunger and barriers to learning through school feeding programmes.