School Feeding Program

The initiative of the Addis Ababa School Feeding Program is aimed at addressing hunger in public elementary schools and enhance both nutritional and educational outcomes. This program plays a crucial role in promoting food and nutrition security, benefiting underprivileged schoolchildren and contributing to the overall sustainability of the food system. By supplying essential meals, it alleviates financial burdens on vulnerable families struggling to provide nutritious food for their children.

Launched as a pilot project in 2019 under the leadership of then Addis Ababa Mayor Takele Uma, the initiative involved around 70,000 elementary school children. Over time, it has evolved into a standard practice, benefiting more than 779,000 students across public elementary schools in the city. Notably, the program has generated employment opportunities for over 10,120 women. The positive impact of the school feeding program is also evident in improved school participation, characterized by increased enrollment and reduced absenteeism.

As highlighted by the Education Bureau report, the program has produced commendable results, including a 12 percent decrease in the dropout rate and a 15 percent increase in the overall enrollment rate. The success of the project lies in its cross-sectoral integration, expanding its reach to more children and improving the quality of school meals provided.

Feeding Centers in Addis Ababa

On September 28, 2023, H.E. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and H.E. Mayor Adanech Abiebie collaboratively inaugurated the 20th Feeding Center in Addis Ababa.  The city administration introduced the feeding centers program to address the challenges faced by disadvantaged individuals who struggle to secure at least one meal a day in the city.

These feeding centers, managed by both the city and through public-private partnerships, aim to provide free daily meals to those most in need. The city administration actively promotes and initiates projects like these, encouraging public participation to create an environment in Addis Ababa where both the affluent and the less fortunate can coexist.

Launched officially in 2021, the program currently extends support to various segments of society, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and the youth of Addis Ababa. The initiative reflects a commitment to social welfare and inclusivity, fostering a community where diverse socio-economic groups can thrive together.