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By Omondi Rodgers
Busia County, Kenya: The government has launched a secondary school feeding program in Busia County, initially targeting day schools in Busia Sub-county. The initiative aims to boost attendance, retention, and academic performance by providing meals to learners.
During the rollout at Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School, 520 bags of beans and 600 bags of rice were distributed to beneficiary schools.
Principal Secretary for Economic Planning, Bonface Makokha, stated the program is designed to prevent dropouts due to hunger or financial hardship at home.
“Our goal is total retention. Many learners miss school when parents can’t raise funds. This program will ensure consistent attendance and better performance,” Makokha said.
He explained that 22 secondary schools in Busia Sub-county are already benefiting, with plans to expand to other sub-counties. Selected special primary schools have also been included to promote inclusivity.
Busia County Director of Education, Mary Oichoe, emphasized that the provision should eliminate excuses for absenteeism. “Now that the government has provided food, there should be no students on the roads this term,” she said.
She also reported a 99% transition rate to Grade 10 in the county, with efforts underway to reach 100%.
School administrators welcomed the support. Patrick Barasa, principal of St Paul’s Busende Secondary School, said, “With this support, our students will remain in school.”
The program is part of broader efforts, complemented by a local professionals’ education fund, to ensure all children in Busia stay in the classroom.
