Kenya's school meal expansion feeds millions but lacks nutrition diversity

Kenya's school meal programmes have expanded rapidly in recent years. Between 2022 and 2024, the number of children receiving meals rose from 66 million to 87 million. Yet, despite this growth, concerns remain about the nutritional quality and variety of the food provided.

The country's Constitution guarantees the right to adequate, nutritious food. However, many school meals still lack diversity, often offering the same limited options. Experts argue that simply increasing the number of meals is not enough—improving their nutritional value is equally important.

One proposed solution is to source more ingredients locally. Buying from smallholder farmers could bring fresher, more varied foods into schools. This approach would not only boost nutrition but also support local businesses. Legumes, vegetables, and fruits are particularly recommended for their high nutrient content.

Kenya already uses different feeding models to suit various regions. But without clear data on how many schools benefit from locally sourced meals, tracking progress remains difficult. Introducing a minimum requirement for local procurement could help strengthen the system.

The expansion of school meal programmes in Kenya has reached millions more children. To maximise their impact, though, meals must become more nutritious and diverse. Strengthening local sourcing and setting procurement standards could ensure better health and education outcomes for pupils.