My Early Research Paths; Exploring school food in Kenya

It would seem my research at graduate school on the topic of food security was done by 2016, but the ideas collected would form a basis for my current research project. The former study opened my eyes to the Kenyan government interventions like school feeding programs and co-operatives. A seed of the vision was sown.

Back in Kenya, the idea kept tagging on me. After resisting it for some time, I decided to delve into an exploration. The challenge I had to welcome was figuring out how to convert the vision into a project.

The idea morphed over time. The sparked curiosity has grown as I understand better the direction the project could take towards this social issue. The vision turned into a project that will potentially add value to children’s health in Kenya. Food supports our health, and so does school food.

Next, I approached two private schools in Kasarani ward for a quick interview to get their thoughts about school feeding. Hence, I planned to visit other private schools in Busia County, and the project became nested there.

I was taken back to my childhood experience when my parents signed me up for lunch from the sugar company canteen. During lunch, we’d wait for the canteen guy to show up at the gate, our lunch packed in rectangular metal containers ferried on a bicycle. That was how food was delivered for my lunch. I did not question anything at that time. It worked perfectly since my home was far away.

Today, after I exit a school or observe lunch served, I note that regardless of the model used, lunch is significant for children to stay in school. Every child should be protected from hunger and undernutrition for their health, well-being, and support for their education.