Kenya, May 13 -- The National Treasury has announced plans to cut the budget for Kenya's school feeding program by Sh600 million in the coming financial year. This will lower the total funding from Sh3.6 billion to Sh3 billion.
This budget cut has raised worries about how it might affect many schoolchildren who depend on this program for their daily meals.
According to documents from the Treasury released on Tuesday, this reduction is part of wider efforts to save money and focus on important development projects.
The school feeding program helps provide food and encourages children to attend school, especially in dry and semi-dry areas. It is an important part of Kenya's education and social support policies.
People involved in education and child welfare are very concerned about this decision.
"This cut threatens the health and school performance of many children," said Jane Wambui, a spokesperson for a local group that focuses on child nutrition.
Critics say this budget reduction could lead to more malnutrition and increase the number of children dropping out of school in poorer areas.
The Treasury explained that they are looking for help from private companies and international donors to fill the funding gap.
"We are committed to making sure that no child goes hungry," a Treasury official said, but they did not provide specific plans for how they will find this extra funding.
Members of Parliament will discuss the proposed budget cut during the upcoming Finance Bill talks.
Lawmakers from the affected regions have promised to fight for the full funding to be returned, saying the program is essential for education and community strength.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.