Uasin Gishu Milk Feeding Program Launched, Pupils to Get Milk Twice Weekly

It’s a new dawn for the County Government of Uasin Gishu following the launch of a milk-feeding program targeting ECDE learners.

The colourful event held at the Central Primary School Grounds was presided over by Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang who was the chief guest.

Speaking at the event, Kipsang hailed Governor Jonathan Bii for the rollout of the program which he said aligns perfectly well with the Kenya Kwanza Education charter that commits to doubling funding for the school feeding program.

He also commended the Governor for employing all ECDE teachers on a permanent and pensionable term.

“Thank you for making it easier for us to increase success, retention and transition,” PS Kipsang said.

“By giving milk to the learners, employing teachers on permanent terms and distributing instructional materials, you’re giving the children an equal chance to succeed,” he added.

Governor Bii with Education PS Belio Kipsang and his Cooperatoves counterpart Patrick Kilemi during lauch of the milk program. — Governor Bii with Education PS Belio Kipsang (centre) and his Cooperatives counterpart Patrick Kilemi during the launch of the milk program on May 23. 2023.

Under the milk feeding program, all the over 40,000 public ECDE learners will be getting a packet of 200ml milk twice every week.

Campaign pledge

Governor Jonathan Bii says the initiative is part of his Nguzo Kumi manifesto on education that he pledged to locals during the campaign period.

The pledge, Bii said, was pegged on the need to ensure every child gets the best foundation irrespective of their family’s financial capabilities.

“This program extends a lifeline to many families. It will nourish pupils’ bodies and bring relief to struggling parents. It will ensure a level playing field and give every child an equal chance to succeed,” the Governor said.

He also assured that it is sustainable, and thanked the County Assembly for fully supporting it.

“We know this thing will help to foster education in our county,” Governor Bii said.

Governor Bii during the launch of the program

Deputy Governor Eng. John Barorot challenged individuals tasked to handle the program to ensure it benefits the indented pupils.

He said all milk must be consumed at school.

“Handle the milk with diligence and trust. Let all the milk be taken in school, not at home,” said Eng. Barorot.

More governors interested

The company’s Managing Director Nixon Sigei said that if optimised, it will not only spur the development of the pupils but also positively impact dairy farmers.

Sigei says Uasin Gishu is the first county to roll out the initiative, with at least 10 Governors expressing interest to follow in the same footsteps.

According to the County Executive for Education Dr. Janeth Kosgey, the program was initiated to address nutritional issues among ECDE learners.

PS Kipsang with Governor Bii during the launch of the school milk program

She is optimistic that the initiative will help ensure the pupils have a strong foundation health-wise, increase enrolment and enhance pupils’ retention in schools.

“We will work an extra mile to ensure the success of this program,” said the CECM who also thanked the Governor for initiating the program.

The event was attended by Patrick Kilemi Principal Secretary, Ministry of Cooperatives, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers and MCAs among other stakeholders in the education and agriculture sector.