Migori, Kenya – First Lady Rachel Ruto has officially launched a pilot school milk program in Migori County, an initiative aimed at improving child nutrition and supporting local dairy farmers. The program, launched in collaboration with the Kenya Dairy Board and the State Department for Livestock Development, seeks to provide school children with essential nutrients while also boosting the dairy sector.
Speaking at the launch, the First Lady emphasized the importance of proper nutrition in enhancing learning outcomes and overall child development. “Good nutrition is the foundation for a healthy and productive nation. By ensuring that children receive milk in schools, we are investing in their future and empowering dairy farmers at the same time,” she stated.
The school milk program is set to benefit thousands of children across Migori County, with plans for possible expansion to other counties in the future. Education and health officials have praised the initiative, noting that regular milk consumption can help address malnutrition and improve cognitive performance in young learners.
In addition to enhancing nutrition, the program is expected to create a stable market for dairy farmers, encouraging increased milk production and sustainability in the sector. The Kenya Dairy Board has assured that the milk supplied will meet high safety and quality standards, ensuring that children receive the best nutritional benefits.
Local farmers welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it would provide them with better income opportunities while contributing to national food security. “This program not only benefits our children but also gives farmers a reliable market, which is crucial for sustaining the dairy industry,” said a representative of the Migori Dairy Farmers Association.
As the program rolls out, stakeholders, including school administrators and parents, are hopeful that it will serve as a model for improving child nutrition and supporting agricultural development across the country. The government and its partners have pledged to monitor the program’s impact and make necessary adjustments to ensure its long-term success.
