Drought Threatens School Attendance as Mandera Rolls Out ECDE Feeding Plan.

Kenya, January 26 2026 - The prevailing drought conditions are expected to negatively affect school enrolment, attendance and retention, with many learners at risk of dropping out, particularly Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) learners across Mandera County.

To cushion children against these adverse effects, the Mandera County Government has initiated a school feeding programme aimed at strengthening child nutrition and supporting early learning across the county.

The programme reflects the county’s commitment to improving the well-being and education of young learners at a time when Mandera continues to grapple with prolonged drought and food insecurity.

Under the ECDE Feeding Programme, the county will distribute 150 metric tonnes of UNIMIX porridge, expected to benefit more than 250,000 learners in 368 public primary schools across Mandera County.

Beyond feeding, the county is also strengthening the quality of education. Through partnerships with development partners, including the INSPIRED Programme funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and implemented by Voice of Peace for All (VOPA), ECDE teachers have received professional training, learning materials for PP1 and PP2 have been supplied, and teacher support initiatives sustained.

Education officials say the success of the programme depends on close collaboration between the county government, parents, school management committees, community leaders and development partners. Stakeholders have been urged to safeguard programme resources, support teachers and ensure children remain in school.

Launching the programme at Mandera DEB Primary School in Mandera East, Governor Mohamed Khalif said the feeding initiative will be sustained across all sub-counties to protect learners from the effects of the ongoing drought.