Community hails school feeding project at Mzalangwe zone in Mzimba
- goodmorningafricanews
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
By Chisomo Sezi
Communities at Sasa under Mzalangwe Zone, in Traditional Authority Chindi in Mzimba, have hailed Shine on Malawi organization for Introducing Homegrown School Feeding Project in the area saying the initiative has significantly improved school attendance and learner performance.
The statistics shows that attendance has jumped from 340 to 362 owing to introduction of the school feeding project in the area.
This was revealed during a recent community engagement meeting organized by Shine on Malawi, aimed at reviewing the past academic year’s outcomes, identifying challenges,strengthen collaboration for the sustainability of the program, and discussing strategies for the 2025–2026 school feeding program.
Speaking during the meeting, Village Headman Tywell Lungu Kapanya expressed deep appreciation for the initiative and urged the Government of Malawi to collaborate closely with Shine on Malawi to enhance educational outcomes through sustained school feeding.
“We are happy that more children are now attending school in greater numbers than before. As a community, we must work hand in hand with Shine on Malawi and the government to ensure this program continues,” said Headman Kapanya.
He further noted that since the school’s establishment in 1973, this is the first time learners have benefited from a feeding program.
“Since 1973, our children have never received any form of feeding support in schools. Now that porridge is being provided, children no longer stay at home — they come to school every day,” he added.
A teacher at Sasa Primary School and School Health and Nutrition (SHN) Coordinator, Josiya Kawaye said the initiative has brought a positive impact leading to an improved learner attendance.
“Previously, we had 340 learners. Since the introduction of the feeding program, enrollment has increased to 362. As teachers, we are pleased to see improved attendance and reduced absenteeism because of the porridge,” he said.
Kawaye also emphasized the need for continuity, especially in the face of challenges such as the recent dry spell and erratic rainfall.
“Despite the challenges, we are committed to moving forward with the program. We cannot afford to go back,” he asserted.
The Homegrown School Feeding Project is implemented by Shine on Malawi with support from Christian Nonprofit,Giving Basics, a U.S.-based partner organization.
The program aims to improve the nutritional status and well-being of students, while also boosting educational outcomes by increasing school enrollment, reducing absenteeism and dropout rates, and improving children's concentration and learning capacity.
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