Incorporating Nutrient-Rich Pelagic Fish in School Feeding Programs in East Africa- RF Omena

Incorporating Nutrient-Rich Pelagic Fish in School Feeding Programs in East Africa- RF Omena

Incorporating Nutrient-Rich Pelagic Fish in School Feeding Programs in East Africa

Region: Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi

Sector: Nutrition and Education

Duration: January 2023 - December 2025

Overview

This project aims to tackle micronutrient malnutrition, also known as "hidden hunger," in East Africa by incorporating small fish like Omena into school feeding programs. Supported by the Rockefeller Foundation, this initiative leverages the nutritional benefits of small fish to improve food security and enhance the diets of school children.

Top Achievements

• Improved Nutrition: Enhanced the nutritional value of school meals by incorporating nutrient-rich small fish.
• Sustainable Supply: Established sustainable supply chains for small fish, benefiting over 30,000 children.
• Economic Impact: Strengthened local economies by supporting fish value chains and sustainable fishing practices.

The Initiative

Micronutrient malnutrition affects over two billion people worldwide, particularly women and children in sub-Saharan Africa. The project addresses this issue by increasing the use of small pelagic fish in school feeding programs, thus improving dietary diversity and nutrition. The project aims to develop scalable, cost-effective models for delivering nutritious fish into school meals, ensuring up to 30,000 children in Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi consume more diversified diets.

Key Challenges

Malnutrition is a critical issue in Africa, affecting one out of three children under five. School feeding programs often lack dietary diversity, providing meals that are filling but not nutritionally balanced. This project seeks to address these challenges by integrating small fish into school meals.

Driving Sustainable Growth

The project focuses on developing sustainable models for incorporating small fish into school feeding programs. By leveraging local resources and knowledge, the initiative aims to enhance the nutritional quality of school meals and support local economies.

Remarkable Achievements

• Nutrient Intake Baseline Survey: Conducted comprehensive surveys to profile micronutrient intake and identify barriers to good nutrition.
• Product Development and Safety Testing: Developed and tested fish-based products to meet food safety standards.
• Consumer Trials and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: Assessed consumer preferences and the economic sustainability of fish-based products.
• Meal Preparation and Food Safety Training: Trained key stakeholders on incorporating fish products into meals and ensuring food safety.
• Strengthening Market Linkages: Established stronger relationships between fish suppliers and school meal procurers.

Partners

• Rockefeller Foundation
• Local fish suppliers
• School feeding program managers

Lattice's Role

Lattice plays a critical role in local project management and strategic interventions. By conducting training sessions, developing SOPs, and engaging with policymakers, Lattice ensures the successful integration of small fish into school meals.

Conclusion

This project showcases Lattice's expertise in improving nutritional outcomes and supporting sustainable development. By integrating small fish into school feeding programs, the initiative addresses malnutrition and supports local economies.

Lillian Marenya, Head of Programs at Lattice.

“Integrating small fish like Omena into school feeding programs is a sustainable way to tackle malnutrition while supporting local fisheries and economies,” 

Lydia Oguyo, Analyst at Lattice.

“By incorporating Omena into school meals, we provide essential nutrients to children and promote sustainable fishing practices, creating a win-win situation for health and local development,”