A Continent-Wide Effort Is Nourishing the Next Generation

Across Africa, school feeding programmes now provide nutritious meals to over 86 million children, strengthening education, health and local economies.

“A well-fed child is a child ready to learn, to grow, and to succeed,” said Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolatlhe, Vice President of Botswana.

Participation has expanded significantly, rising from 66 million children in 2022 to around 86 million today, with governments now funding more than 70% of programmes. Investments have nearly doubled over the past decade, and initiatives are increasingly linking school meals to local agriculture and access to clean water. Evidence shows returns of up to $9 for every $1 invested, highlighting the long-term benefits for education, nutrition and rural livelihoods.