The World Food Program (WFP) plays a crucial role in the fight against hunger and malnutrition by providing meals to disadvantaged children through school canteens. In partnership with the United States and the European Union, WFP supports school meal programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to ensure that children have access to adequate nutrition and can stay in school.
The Elongo photography exhibition, which highlights WFP’s work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently opened at the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial in Brazzaville. One of the most striking photos in the exhibition shows a happy eight-year-old girl from Bondzokou school holding her teacher’s hands after eating her meal in the school canteen. This image conveys a powerful message about the importance of school meals for Congolese children.
The main objective of school canteens is to provide daily nutrition to children attending school, in order to give them the nutrients they need to develop well and succeed academically. In addition to meeting their nutritional needs, school meals also have a positive impact on student attendance and performance. Indeed, studies have shown that children who receive regular school meals tend to attend school more diligently and get better grades.
To implement these school meal programs, WFP receives financial support from various partners, including the United States and the European Union. The United States has contributed nearly $100 million since 2004 to support WFP initiatives in the DRC. The European Union, for its part, sees school canteens as an essential way of keeping children in school and giving them better opportunities for the future.
This year, more than 173,000 students in more than 500 establishments across the country benefit from school meals, thanks to the joint efforts of WFP, the United States and the European Union. The results are encouraging, with children who are more motivated and better nourished, which promotes their personal development and their chances of success in life.
In conclusion, WFP’s work in the DRC, supported by the United States and the European Union, is a concrete example of the importance of school meals in combating childhood hunger and malnutrition. These programs not only help improve their health, but also strengthen their education and future prospects. It is essential to continue supporting these initiatives to give all children an equal chance of success.