Ruto Promises Chapati-Making Machine to Boost Nairobi’s School Feeding Program
President William Ruto has committed to purchasing a high-capacity chapati-making machine to enhance Nairobi’s Dishi Na County school feeding program. The initiative, led by Governor Johnson Sakaja, currently provides meals to over 300,000 students in primary schools across the city.
Speaking at St. Teresa Girls Secondary School in Mathare, Ruto confirmed his support for the project. He directed Sakaja to find a suitable supplier for the machine. The governor had earlier engaged students on potential menu improvements, and they requested chapati.
The Dishi Na County program has grown significantly, providing nutritious meals to learners. Sakaja highlighted that one out of every four students had previously missed school due to hunger. With the introduction of a chapati-making machine, meal variety will improve, ensuring better nutrition and attendance.
Ruto’s Support for Nairobi’s School Feeding Initiative
During his visit to Mathare and Ruaraka, Ruto emphasized the importance of school feeding programs in urban and marginalized communities. He reiterated his government’s commitment to expanding these initiatives across the country.
Sakaja expressed gratitude for the president’s intervention, stating that mass chapati production would greatly benefit students. The governor acknowledged that meal provision has had a direct impact on attendance and academic performance.
Ruto’s visit also included the unveiling of a new mega-dormitory at St. Teresa Girls Secondary School. Designed to house over 1,200 students, the facility was developed in response to the growing demand for quality boarding spaces.
Scaling Up the Dishi Na County Program
In 2024, Sakaja announced an expansion of the Dishi Na County initiative, which had already delivered over 30 million meals to 310,000 students across 230 schools. By improving access to meals, the county aims to reduce food insecurity and support learners in focusing on their studies.
Parents and educators have welcomed the expansion, emphasizing the positive impact on students’ well-being. The integration of a chapati-making machine will further enhance the initiative’s effectiveness, ensuring efficiency in meal preparation.
The Cost and Impact of Chapati-Making Machines
Chapati-making machines, also known as roti makers, are designed to produce large quantities of the dish in a short period. Some high-capacity machines can produce up to 2,000 chapatis per hour, making them ideal for large-scale feeding programs like Dishi Na County.
These machines vary in price, with industrial models costing upwards of Ksh.150,000. By investing in such technology, the Nairobi County government can streamline food preparation processes, reducing manual labor while maintaining consistency in meal quality.
The introduction of this machine is expected to have a significant impact, ensuring that students receive balanced meals regularly. With hunger being a major factor affecting school attendance, this initiative is poised to improve enrollment and student concentration in class.
Government Commitment to Expanding School Feeding Programs
Ruto reaffirmed his government’s commitment to expanding school feeding programs, particularly in informal settlements and marginalized areas. The goal is to ensure that all learners, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to nutritious meals.
Speaking on Monday, Ruto highlighted the need for sustainable food programs across Kenya. He pointed out that hunger has long been a challenge for students in low-income communities, affecting their ability to learn and thrive in school environments.
By supporting initiatives like Dishi Na County, the government aims to create a model that can be replicated in other counties. This aligns with national education and social welfare goals, ensuring that all children have equal opportunities to excel academically.
Enhancing School Infrastructure and Facilities
In addition to supporting feeding programs, Ruto’s administration has prioritized improving school infrastructure. The unveiling of the new dormitory at St. Teresa Girls Secondary School is part of broader efforts to provide quality learning environments for students.
The facility, which accommodates over 1,200 students, was built to address the growing demand for better boarding facilities. By expanding school infrastructure, the government is ensuring that students have access to safe and conducive learning environments.
Sakaja noted that the construction of modern dormitories and dining halls would complement the school feeding program. He stressed that such investments are crucial in promoting academic success and overall student welfare.
Community Support for the Dishi Na County Program
The success of the Dishi Na County program has been largely driven by community support. Parents, teachers, and local leaders have played a crucial role in ensuring that meals reach students efficiently.
Several stakeholders have also called for increased investment in school feeding programs, highlighting their impact on reducing absenteeism. Many parents have expressed relief, noting that their children no longer have to skip meals due to financial constraints at home.
As the program continues to expand, there are growing calls for additional funding to sustain it. The inclusion of chapati in the menu is expected to be a welcome addition, further enriching students’ dietary options.
A Step Towards Food Security and Education Enhancement
With Ruto’s pledge to support Nairobi’s school feeding program, the future looks promising for students benefiting from the initiative. Introducing a chapati-making machine is set to revolutionize meal preparation, making the process more efficient and sustainable.
The government’s commitment to expanding feeding programs aligns with broader national development goals. Ruto’s administration is laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier, and more educated generation by addressing food insecurity in schools.
As Nairobi County continues to enhance the Dishi Na County program, students can look forward to improved nutrition and better learning conditions. The pledge to provide one million chapatis daily marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s efforts to combat hunger and promote education.
