KENYA – Machakos County, one of the 47 county governments in Kenya, has launched the ‘Maziwa ya Mama Project,’ a free milk program for Early Child Development Education (ECDE) learners in all public schools in the county.
According to the county’s governor, Wavinya Ndeti, the initiative aims to provide nourishment, and energy, and improve the health of children as they embark on their academic journey.
Governor Ndeti described the program as a groundbreaking effort in the county, emphasizing its significance in “feeding the future.”
The launch took place at Kyamutheke Primary School in Mavoko, Machakos County, where Ndeti outlined the details of the initiative. Under the program, children will receive milk twice a week, specifically on Mondays and Fridays.
Recalling the impact of the famous ‘maziwa ya nyayo’ (Nyayo milk) program, Ndeti acknowledged its role in retaining children in school and preventing malnutrition, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas.
The ‘Maziwa ya Mama Project’ is envisioned as a continuation of the legacy, offering free milk to ECDE learners.
Governor Ndeti stressed the societal importance of giving back, highlighting the role of those who consumed former President Daniel Moi’s milk (Nyayo milk) in various leadership positions within the country and diaspora.
She expressed the sentiment that providing free milk to children is a meaningful way to contribute to society.
The governor cautioned teachers and caregivers in ECDE centers against diverting the milk for personal gain and emphasized the need for proper storage to prevent contamination.
Ndeti underscored the potential benefits of the program, including increased enrollment, improved nutrition, enhanced health, and overall well-being of the children.
In addition to the positive impact on children, Governor Ndeti outlined the economic benefits for dairy farmers who will supply the milk.
The county government has collaborated with milk suppliers to purchase the commodity from cooperatives within Machakos County, supporting local farmers and contributing to the realization of the governor’s ‘Chakula mezani, pesa mfukoni’ development agenda.
The milk supplied during the launch was processed and packed by a local manufacturer based in Narok County, showcasing the collaboration between counties for the success of such initiatives.
The ‘Maziwa ya Mama Project’ reflects a commitment to investing in the health and education of young learners while fostering economic opportunities for local farmers in Machakos County.
Subscribe to our food and agriculture industry email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE
