How Nakuru County Is Revolutionizing Nutrition For Better Education, Food Security
Governor Susan Kihika (left) and Ms Yahel Margovsky Lotem pose for a photo after the meeting. Photo/Courtesy
By Suleiman Mbatiah
The County Government of Nakuru is banking on the adoption of innovative agricultural practices to address food security and health challenges in the region.
Of particular interest is the spirulina cultivation program as part of a broader green nutritional revolution to address malnutrition among school-going children and improve education standards.
Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria containing various vitamins, including B vitamins and vitamin K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Due to its dense nutrient content, spirulina is often consumed as a dietary supplement or incorporated into food products with potential health benefits.
Governor Susan Kihika said the county is exploring potential partnerships with Israel for a sustainable feeding program for children in Early Childhood Education (ECDE) schools.
“We are seeking assistance from the Government of Israel to partner with them in providing nutritious meals for over 60,000 children in our ECDE schools,” she stated.
The governor made these remarks following a meeting with Ms Yahel Margovsky Lotem, the spouse of the Israeli ambassador to Kenya, held in Muthaiga, Nairobi.
She revealed that partnership plans were at an advanced stage and that Ms Yahel would grace the official launch of the feeding program in Nakuru County in the coming days.
Through Israel’s Engineers Without Borders (EWB), the embassy has initiated a spirulina cultivation program, focusing on growing protein-rich blue algae in Njoro Sub-county.
EWB is an Israeli organization that consists of engineers and technical professionals who volunteer their skills to support various humanitarian projects worldwide.
Ms Yahel stated that the Embassy would mobilize a team of other experts from Israel to expand spirulina farming and uptake as a key ingredient in meals for ECDE children.
“The project has gained momentum in schools around Njoro, and we are committed to transforming Nakuru County into a hub for spirulina growth to address food security in the county,” she noted.
During her campaigns, Governor Kihika pledged that, if elected, her administration would launch school feeding programs aimed at increasing school enrollments.
Furthermore, she emphasized that the program would have a positive impact on local economies by creating employment opportunities, particularly in farming and kitchen activities.
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting children’s learning abilities by positively impacting cognitive development, memory, and overall learning outcomes.
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