CLIMATE SMART HOME GROWN SCHOOLS MEALS PROGRAMME

The recent discussion at the West Pokot County government highlighted the significance of a homegrown food program in schools. Key attendees, including County Secretary Jonathan Siwanyang, Rosemary Kyalo from the Ministry of Education(NACONEK) Julius Kisingu, Simon Mwangi from the World Food Programme, Dinah Poghision (Department of Health and Sanitation), and Peter Kodwaran(Department of Agriculture) gathered to deliberate on the matter.

The primary focus was on the school meals program recognizing their potential to address the nutritional needs of arid and semi-arid schools. Schools, as a consistent market, were identified as an avenue for locally produced food, strengthening the local economy. Moreover, parents can contribute by providing vegetables, fruits, and more.

The Department of Agriculture was designated to oversee food production, ensuring its quality, while the health department would guarantee its nutritional value. The climate sector's involvement was essential to align food production with local climate conditions.

The discussion concluded with the county Early Childhood Development (ECD) director expressing gratitude and encouraging all stakeholders to contribute their best to this important initiative.