Hunger among school-going children in Isiolo County is a pressing issue that affects their overall well-being and academic performance. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), in 2019, 37% of children under the age of 18 experienced moderate or severe food insecurity, with many going to school hungry every day in the County. Many children have become reliant on the government funded one meal a day programme, which is still not enough to cover their daily food and nutrition requirements.

It’s on this basis MID-P through the support of Johanniter International Assistance initiated the establishment of school gardening project in 7 schools of Isiolo County. Integration of sustainable agricultural practices into school gardens is an opportunity for school-going children to learn new, climate smart and innovative farming methods, and to grow more diverse and nutritious food. The food produced can supplement the existing school meals, add variety to the school menu, improve the nutritional status and cognitive performance of the children, and contribute to their growth.

As access to diverse fresh fruits and vegetables is often limited in ASAL regions due to limited availability, high prices and long distances to markets, having organic school gardens can play a vital role in improving children’s nutrition. This is because by sustainably growing their own produce, schools can ensure a regular supply of nutritious food, leading to improved dietary intake and better health outcomes. This is particularly important for children, who require adequate nutrition for proper growth, development and good health.

MID-P conducted a needs assessment in consultation with Ministry of of Education where it emerged that the current school gardens are only able to provide a meal for the pupils only once a week.  The assessment showed gaps and potential in establishing schools’ gardens in some schools including: Ntalabany, Isiolo School for the Deaf, Elsa, Waso , Kilimani Primary School,Lowangila ,Kisima 78,Kambi ya Juu and Aka deli primary school Based on the assessment the following interventions were proposed: Training of teachers, 4-K Club patrons and pupils on sustainable agricultural practices including agro-ecology and integrated pest and disease management to improve yields , Training of pupils on efficient plant watering methods and provision of irrigation supplies, Provision of farm inputs including drought tolerant seed varieties (for both vegetables and fruits) to increase variety in school meals, tools, Expansion of garden areas in specific schools to support provision of more than one meal per week  and Provision of shade nets and fencing material to support plant survival. Planting seed of Hope for 4-K Club members at Ntalabany Comprehensive School.

Fig 1 Ntalabany primary school pupils receiving trees to plant in school compound

Ntalabany Comprehensive Schools, located in Isiolo County, was one of seven schools benefiting from the School Garden Project, implemented by Merti Integrated Development Programme (MID-P) with funding from Johanniter International Assistance (JIA). The   project aimed at enabling children aged 5–15 years to learn how to establish sustainable school gardens, learn new and innovative skills in agriculture, to encourage environmental conservation through organic farming and to learn about new, diverse and nutritious foods. Also encouraged them to establish home gardens.

Before the project, the school faced several challenges. With limited resources for agricultural activities, students lacked exposure to practical farming skills. Poor nutrition among learners hindered academic performance and attendance. The school also struggled with retaining pupils.

“Our biggest challenge was providing consistent and nutritious meals for the students, which directly impacted their ability to focus and stay in school,” said Mr. Martin Kirimi, the school’s Headteacher.

Ntalabany Comprehensive Schools received a variety of support, including farm inputs, tools, agroforestry materials, a dam liner, fish feeds, and fingerlings to start fish farming. Two 4-K Club patrons and the headteacher underwent training in organic farming, pest and disease management, crop care, and soil erosion control. This knowledge was shared with pupils through engaging 4-K Club activities, which saw all students enrolled in the program.

Fig.2 Crops at Ntalabany primary school garden ready for harvest

To further enhance learning, the students participated in two external visits to the Meru Agricultural Show and a permaculture center in Nanyuki. They also had an inter-learning session with Isiolo School for the Deaf to explore fish farming and agroforestry practices.

“The learning visits were eye-opening. The students were inspired to see real-life applications of what they were learning,” shared Mr. Wycliffe Odero, a 4-K Club Patron.

The school hosted an Open Day event where 57 parents attended to witness the students’ progress, skills, and dedication to their projects. Enrollment grew from 258 to 318 pupils, as parents and students were drawn to the improved school environment and nutrition. Harvests from the school garden were incorporated into meals, significantly boosting student health and retention.

“Our meals are now more balanced, and this has motivated students to stay in school,” said Mr. Martin. “Parents are also more involved and supportive after seeing the tangible benefits.”

Fig 3 parents attending open day event at Ntalabany primary school

The MID-P agronomist’s ongoing support ensured successful pest and disease management, leading to higher crop yields. The Open Day event further fostered community involvement and pride, as parents celebrated their children’s newfound skills and confidence.

Ntalabany Comprehensive Schools plans to build on this momentum by expanding its agricultural activities. The school aims to introduce more crops, scale up fish farming, and plant additional trees to enhance agroforestry efforts. Teachers and students are exploring ways to make the program self-sustaining, such as selling surplus produce and fish to generate income.

“Our vision is to make agriculture a cornerstone of our education model,” stated Mr. Martin. “We want to inspire other schools to adopt similar practices and continue nurturing the potential of our students.”

  Fig 4 sac garden at Ntalabany primary schoool

Ntalabany Comprehensive Schools is an example of how targeted support can transform an institution. The integration of sustainable farming into the school curriculum has enriched students’ lives, strengthened community ties, and positioned the school as a beacon of hope and innovation in the region.

“Now, when I look at our garden and fishpond, I see more than just food, I see the future,” said Jane pakusa, a 4-K Club member.

Fig 5. MID-P Agronomist teaching 4-K Club members on how to harvest vegetables