Rwanda celebrated the 10th African Day of School Feeding, marking ten years of progress in ensuring students receive nutritious meals that enhance their education. At the national level,  the celebration took place at Groupe Scolaire Kigali under the theme: “A Decade of Nourishment: Celebrating the Past, Securing a Just Future.”

In his keynote speech, Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana emphasized the program’s transformative role in student well-being and academic success. He noted that Rwanda has allocated 94 billion Rwandan Francs (RWF) to school feeding this year alone, underscoring the government's commitment. Since 2021, the government has built 3,282 kitchens and installed 7,171 stoves to improve meal preparation in schools.

"Nutritious meals are essential for children's growth and learning,” Minister Nsengimana stated. “They enhance learners wellbeing, improve health, and pave the way for a brighter future.” He further highlighted the initiative’s impact, citing improved attendance, reduced lateness, and better curriculum implementation. In some cases, it has also curbed dropout rates, as students return to school for guaranteed daily meals.

The Minister expressed gratitude to partners, particularly the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), for its unwavering support. He also commended the Dusangire Lunch Campaign, which enables individuals and companies in Rwanda and abroad to contribute to the school feeding program through Umwalimu SACCO and Mobile Money. Those in Rwanda can donate by dialing *182*3*10*3#

Urging timely contributions from parents, the Minister stressed the importance of ensuring all children receive daily meals. He also called parents to enroll kid on time, indicated particulary  that the six-year-olds should enrol in primary school, aligning with national education policy.

As part of the event, 30 schools were recognized for exemplary implementation of the feeding program, each receiving certificates and 800,000 RWF. Top-performing schools from each province and Kigali City were awarded certificates and 2 million RWF. Additionally, Gasabo, Ngoma, Rubavu, Nyamagabe, and Burera districts were commended for their leadership in advancing school feeding efforts.

Rwanda remains dedicated to expanding and strengthening the initiative, ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals that support both education and overall well-being.