Migori: WFP introduces Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato to supplement school meals

 

Sweet potatoes 

The World Food Program (WFP) is taking steps to ensure the sustainability of school feeding programs in Migori’s semi-arid Nyatike constituency by introducing Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) to supplement other foods consumed by children in schools.

In Nyatike, the WFP has started the initiative at BL Tezza Special School, where they are training teachers and parents on various dishes that can be prepared using OFSP.

Judy Ndung’u, a WFP officer, outlined the benefits of OFSP during a speech at the school, emphasizing its high nutrient content, particularly vitamin A, which is essential for child development and growth.

Ndung’u also pointed out that OFSP is well-suited for Nyatike and Migori as it is drought-tolerant and serves as an alternative food source for the community.

BL Tezza Special School director, Millicent Kasienes, expressed her support for the OFSP program, noting that most schools in the area rely on farming to feed children, and the nutrient-rich potato variety is a valuable addition.

Sammy Agili, an officer from the International Potato Center (CIP), revealed that they have also introduced OFSP in Awendo and Kuria sub-counties.

At the national level, Agili stated that CIP has introduced the variety in Wajir, Garissa, and Tana River, which face harsher weather conditions compared to Nyatike.

By Celestine Mwango