The Mukuru informal settlement in Nairobi is home to a vibrant population of approximately 95,000 school-going children. Despite this large number, Mukuru faces a significant educational deficit, with only seven public schools and 150 non-formal schools serving the entire community. Of the school-going population, around 15,000 children attend public schools, while 33,000 go to poorly resourced non-formal schools. Alarmingly, more than half of the area’s school-age children (about 52,000) are unaccounted for, raising concerns about high dropout rates or children attending schools outside the settlement.
The children of Mukuru encounter numerous challenges, including inadequate education and insufficient access to food. Parents in Mukuru struggle with a hand-to-mouth existence, making it difficult for them to afford the Ksh 20 to Ksh 50 required for school feeding programmes. The costs associated with the new education system place a significant burden on them, particularly for single parents with limited support.
Our recent research on the school feeding programme in Mukuru’s informal schools highlights a stark reality: many students in Mukuru attend school on an empty stomach. This lack of nutrition severely hampers their ability to concentrate, participate, and ultimately, learn. A key finding from our study is that the introduction of school feeding programmes significantly boosts students’ academic performance and overall well-being. By providing meals at school, we ensure that students have the energy they need to focus on their studies. Proper nutrition is not just about filling stomachs; it’s about nourishing young minds to help them thrive. Our research confirms that with a reliable source of food, students are more likely to attend school regularly, participate actively in class, and perform better academically.
An integral part of our research involved mapping the informal schools in Mukuru. This mapping exercise was crucial in understanding the geographic distribution of schools and identifying areas with the greatest need for feeding programmes. By pinpointing the locations of these schools, we can more effectively allocate resources and ensure that no child is left behind. Moreover, the research process was a collaborative effort involving the local community and Nairobi County officials. Engaging with the community allowed us to gather diverse perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by these schools. Nairobi County officials provided valuable insights and support, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach to address the issue.
The research on Mukuru’s school feeding programme underscores a simple yet powerful truth: proper nutrition is a cornerstone of effective learning. By addressing the nutritional needs of students, we can create a brighter future for the children of Mukuru, fostering an environment where every child has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.
Moving forward, it is crucial to implement and sustain these programmes to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed. Key steps include securing funding and resources by partnering with local and international organizations to fund school feeding initiatives, continuously involving the community to adapt the programme to local needs and ensure its sustainability, and regularly assessing the impact of the feeding programmes to make necessary adjustments and improve effectiveness.
Together, let’s ensure that no child in Mukuru has to choose between going hungry and going to school. Join us in this vital mission to empower education through nutrition.
Author: Reuben Mutua