education 26 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Busoga School Feeding Program Expands to Reach 5,000 More Learners
An expanded school feeding initiative in Uganda's Busoga sub-region will benefit an additional 5,000 learners, focusing on better nutrition, attendance, and academic results through sustainable agriculture. Led by Iowa State University Uganda Program (ISU-UP) with partners, the program serves nutrient-rich meals and builds school infrastructure. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/school-feeding-program-targets-additional-5-000-learners-in-busoga-5404522
An expanded school feeding program in the Busoga sub-region aims to support 5,000 more learners by improving nutrition, attendance, and academic performance.
The Iowa State University Uganda Program (ISU-UP), partnering with the Next Generation Institute and Busoga Kingdom, emphasizes sustainable feeding practices and rural livelihoods. During benchmarking in Kamuli District, Prof. Francis Owusu highlighted how integrating school feeding with agriculture boosts long-term health and education impacts, while enhancing household incomes.
Issabalangira Henry Woira of Bugabula Chiefdom noted the kingdom’s role in ramping up food production via cocoa, matooke, and tree planting. Across 11 chiefdoms, demonstration gardens and nurseries train communities in sustainable farming to supply schools and homes.
Currently active in six schools—Namasagali, Nakanyonyi, Naluwoli, Kasozi, Namasagali Rural primaries, and Namasagali College—the program feeds 5,000 learners daily. Meals include nyoyo (maize and beans) for lunch and porridge from amaranth, soya beans, and milk for breakfast.
Beneficiary schools now feature modern kitchens and sanitation facilities. ISU-UP Country Director Dr. Gideon Nadiope urged adopting healthy diets, commercial agriculture, and irrigation over rain-fed methods to retain students and protect the vulnerable.
Kamuli District Education Officer Joseph Waibi praised the model for driving retention, attendance, enrollment, and performance, calling on other schools to use land for food production.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)