The Ministry of Education in Mpulungu says it has received K3,900,000 for the procurement of Beans, and White Maize for the home-grown school meals in the district.
Mpulungu District Education Standards Officer in charge of General Inspection Rita Mwanza said the process which is underway will see the department procure food stuffs for the second quarter amounting to 23,250 kilograms of beans, a crucial source of protein and energy for school children.
Ms Mwanza added that 110,000 kilograms of Zambian White Maize, a staple food in the local diet and an important component of the home-grown school meals initiative will also be procured.
Speaking during the second quarter District Development Coordinating Committee meeting yesterday Ms Mwanza described the purchase as a significant financial support that aims to ensure that pupils across the district receive nutritious meals, which are vital for their growth and academic performance.
She explained that the procurement process is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote local agriculture and support smallholder farmers in Mpulungu.
“By sourcing maize locally, the ministry hopes to boost the local economy while ensuring a reliable supply of nutritious food for schools and the initiative aligns with national efforts to promote food security and reduce dependency on imported foodstuffs, fostering self-sufficiency within communities,” she said.
Ms Mwanza disclosed that the school meals program is important in improving pupil attendance, concentration, and providing balanced and nutritious meals.
She observed that the provision meals will encourage more children to attend school regularly and stay engaged in their lessons.
She explained that the program is also seen as a way to combat hunger and malnutrition among vulnerable children in the district.
Ms Mwanza revealed that the procurement process for the beans and maize is being conducted through transparent and competitive bidding procedures adding that the ministry has select reputable suppliers who can deliver quality products within the stipulated timelines.
She said the approach ensures accountability and maximises the impact of the allocated funds, providing value for money in the implementation of the program.
Ms Mwanza highlighted that the funds allocated for the second quarter are part of the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing education through improved nutrition adding that as better nutrition among school children corresponds with improved academic outcomes and overall wellbeing.
Meanwhile parents, local farmers and traders in Mpulungu have welcomed the initiative, saying it is an opportunity to increase their sales and strengthen their livelihoods.
Edward Chele expressed hope that the demand for locally produced beans and maize will incentivise more farmers to participate in the program.
He has since appealed to stakeholders in the education and agricultural sectors to closely monitor the implementation of this procurement plan.
Mr Chele also encouraged suppliers engaged to deliver in contractual time frame saying timely delivery of the food supplies will ensure the smooth running of the school meals program throughout the quarter.
