Non-profit organization Compassion International is currently running nutritional programs that have helped more than 1,500 students from Vihiga, Kisumu, and Nandi counties. The program participants receive both school fee assistance and dietary support.
Richard Sijenyi, a coordinator with Compassion International, said the program has been active for the past thirty years in these three counties facing a significant challenge with child malnutrition. Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Kisumu, Sijenyi explained how the organization pays school fees for program participants and enrolls them in dietary programs.
The forum coordinator pointed out that research demonstrates the link between poverty and malnutrition, combating the misconception that a balanced diet requires significant expense. He observed that many types of traditional food items, often overlooked, possess great nutritional power.
Vihiga County Public Health Officer Solomon Omukoto noted that various food items become contaminated due to improper handling. He added that many food items contain additives that can reduce their nutritional value.
He mentioned that it was the constitutional duty of the government to give enough and safe food to its people, and this shows how nutritionists have teamed up with community health promoters for fighting against malnutrition in the three counties.
The gathering comprised of health workers, government officers and community gate keepers from the three counties.