A total of 89,000 learners across 104 schools in Kabwe District, Central Province, are benefiting from the School Feeding Programme.

Kabwe District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) Inonge Mulemwa says the programme has improved learner performance and reduced absenteeism in schools.

Speaking when Ministry of Information and Media Principal Public Relations Officer Shamwinda Tembo paid a courtesy call on her, Dr Mulemwa noted that before the introduction of the feeding programme many learners attended classes on empty stomachs which contributed to poor attendance and affected their concentration in class.

“The feeding programme caters for learners from early childhood education up to secondary school level,” she said.

Dr Mulemwa also dismissed allegations that schools were charging parents for the School Feeding Programme, stating that government provides adequate food supplies to all schools.

She further explained that the Ministry works closely with health and agriculture officers, who regularly visit schools to inspect and certify the quality and safety of food being served to learners.