GOVERNMENT TO INTRODUCE MILK COMPONENT IN SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAMME
Government has announced plans to introduce a milk component in the school feeding programme this year, as part of efforts to enhance the nutritional value of meals provided to learners across the country.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kelvin Mambwe, says the initiative has been provided for in the 2026 national budget and will be implemented through partnerships with the private sector to supply milk to Early Childhood Education Centres.
In a statement issued to ZANIS by First Secretary for Press at the Zambian High Commission in Botswana, Julia Malunga, Dr Mambwe adds that the move is aimed at improving the health, concentration and overall learning outcomes of pupils benefiting from the programme.
“The Government of Zambia has this year included in the national budget allocation a component for milk to enhance meal quality. With this funding, the private sector will be engaged to supply milk to Early Childhood Education centres.
“This has made it possible to enrich school menus with nutritious foods, improving the health and concentration of learners,” he said.
Dr Mambwe was speaking during a side event on Public-Private Partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms to enhance investment in school meals held during the 11th Africa Day of School Feeding in Gaborone, Botswana, under the theme “Ensuring access to nutritious meals, clean water and hygiene.
