Kenya’s First Lady Launches National School Milk Programme to Boost Child Nutrition

Nakuru, The Gulf Observer: Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto has officially launched the pilot phase of the National School Milk Programme at Testai Primary School in Nakuru County, aiming to enhance child nutrition and improve learning outcomes. The initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s vision of creating fruit gardens in schools and homes to support the planting of 15 billion trees by 2032.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady stressed the importance of nutritious meals for students, stating:

“Educating a hungry child is a challenging task; a well-fed child is more attentive, active, and likely to thrive in studies.”

The pilot phase will benefit eleven schools in five counties, with each child receiving a packet of milk twice a week. The initiative is expected to improve school attendance and concentration among students.

Call for Stakeholder Support

The First Lady urged leaders, organizations, and stakeholders to finance and support similar programmes, emphasizing that community involvement is key to achieving sustainable development.

The event also saw the presence of Agriculture PS Paul Rono, who highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to build capacity in farming activities at schools, boosting nutrition and food production.

“We are working on a policy framework with other sectors and players to ensure this programme is well anchored,” said Margaret Kibogy, Managing Director of the Kenya Dairy Board (KDB).

Accompanying the First Lady at the event were MPs Samuel Gachobe (Subukia), Liza Chelule (Nakuru), and Paul Chebor (Rongai), among other dignitaries, demonstrating broad political support for the programme.

The National School Milk Programme marks a significant step toward child welfare and food security, aligning with Kenya’s broader strategy to combat malnutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.