WFP Boosts School Feeding and Community Development in Sennar (Sudan)
Section
In Sennar, Sudan, the World Food Programme (WFP) is leading a targeted initiative aimed at strengthening both education and food security.
With a focus on school meals and food assistance, the programme seeks to address child hunger, improve learning outcomes, and support the local economy through a community-driven approach.
Central to the programme is the distribution of food commodities to schools, enabling the provision of cooked meals or take-home rations (THR) for students. These meals are not only essential for meeting children's daily nutritional needs but also play a key role in encouraging regular school attendance and improving concentration and academic performance.
WFP is also supporting the establishment and training of parent-teacher associations in targeted schools. These groups, along with school staff, are equipped with the skills to manage and implement school feeding activities effectively. A specially designed school menu planner is being introduced, helping schools prepare nutritious, cost-effective meals using locally available ingredients.
Nutrition education is another key component. Through interactive sessions and community outreach, students, teachers, parents, and cooks are engaged in learning about healthy eating habits and the importance of balanced diets. WFP also uses Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) strategies to reach a wider audience and reinforce key health messages throughout the community.
To ensure transparency and effectiveness, the programme includes continuous monitoring and timely reporting mechanisms. These systems help guide decisions and improve implementation. Non-food items are also distributed as needed, supporting safe and efficient food preparation and delivery in schools.
The initiative leverages the Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) model, connecting local smallholder farmers to schools as food suppliers. This creates new livelihood opportunities and strengthens the agricultural value chain, contributing to the local economy while ensuring fresher, locally sourced food for students.
Expected outcomes of the programme include more stable school enrolment rates, improved attendance, and a reduction in gender disparities, especially among primary school children. At the same time, it enhances the economic resilience of local producers and supports the broader education sector in Sennar.
Through this integrated approach, WFP is not only helping children learn and thrive but also empowering communities to build a more food-secure and educated future.
