She thanked the Gambia government and the European Union’s contributions.
The WFP country representative, Victoria Ginja, said school meals complement the learning package for children and health, nutrition and hygiene ensuring a holistic approach in the implementation of the school feeding programme.
She was speaking at a media sensitization forum held at the Regional Education Directorate Office in Kanifing on Monday, on the implementation of the school feeding programme in the country, organized by the WFP and MoBSE.
The school feeding programme has widened its audience to include smallholders’ farmers, Ginga said.
According to her, the school feeding programme is part of a multi-sectoral intervention with the ultimate goal of contributing to an increase in enrolment and retention.
Ms Ginja commended the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, MoBSE, for its commitment to the school feeding programme, and in supporting all activities especially those geared toward raising awareness.
The WFP is regarded as the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, it provides both humanitarian and development assistance.It has been present in The Gambia since 1970.
The WFP will today, 5 March, celebrate the International School Meals Day at the GOVI grounds in Kanifing at 10 am.
