The High Court has upheld Nairobi County Government’s ‘Dishi Na County‘ school feeding program, dismissing a legal challenge against it in a ruling delivered on Friday.
Justice Mwita emphasized that halting the program would not serve the best interests of the children, citing its critical role in enhancing their welfare.
The case, brought by the lobby group ‘Tunza Mtoto Coalition Kenya’, contested the legality of the feeding program for students in public primary schools within Nairobi County.
Jane Ouko, Executive Director of Tunza Mtoto Coalition, argued that the program encroached on a national government function, namely education.
In defense, Nairobi County, represented by lawyer Duncan Okatch, countered that all necessary legal protocols were adhered to prior to the program’s launch.
The County Government hailed the court’s decision as validation of its efforts to support learning and nutrition among schoolchildren in Nairobi.
Suzanne Silantoi, Nairobi County’s CEC for Health and Nutrition, expressed gratitude for the ruling, describing it as pivotal for Nairobi’s children, affirming the county’s commitment to neglected youth.
Currently, the program benefits approximately 200,000 children in public ECDE and primary schools across Nairobi, with plans to extend coverage to all public primary schools by September 2024.
The initiative operates in collaboration with Food4Education, a non-profit organization with a presence in various counties, including Muranga and Mombasa.
This partnership underscores the program’s broader impact and commitment to ensuring children receive adequate nutrition to support their educational journey.
Moving forward, Nairobi County aims to expand and enhance the scope of the ‘Dishi Na County’ program, emphasizing its dedication to fostering a conducive learning environment and improving the overall well-being of its young residents.
The court’s decision marks a significant milestone in affirming the program’s legality and its positive impact on the educational landscape of Nairobi.
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