Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has highlighted the significance of the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) in promoting local agricultural development.
According to Dr. Mahmoud, the programme not only provides education but also empowers local farmers and strengthens the rural economy by relying on locally sourced produce.
Dr. Mahmoud made this assertion during an interactive session with stakeholders of the FCT Home-Grown School Feeding Programme.
She emphasized the importance of regular interactive sessions to reflect on successes, address challenges, and chart a sustainable path forward.
The minister assured that the FCT Administration would continue to facilitate the effective operation of the programme, ensuring that no school is left behind.
Dr. Mahmoud commended government officials, school administrators, community leaders, farmers, cooks, and development partners for their invaluable contributions.
Senior Special Assistant to the President of the School Feeding Programme, Dr. Yetunde Adeniyi, emphasized the programme’s impact, stating that thousands of children have benefited from daily nutritious meals, leading to increased attendance and retention in schools.
The operation officer of the programme in FCT, Hauwa Abubakar, highlighted the importance of community engagement, transparency, and accountability in ensuring the programme’s effectiveness.
Representative of the World Food Programme, Agnes Mungatia, emphasized the need to strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the programme’s success.