Probing irregularities in school feeding scheme

THE National School Nutrition Programme has been earmarked to be investigated and independently evaluated in relation to the continual irregularities that have been reported. The allegations, which primarily include tender fraud and other varied allegations, have been ongoing for years, but we are yet to be informed of a successful measure to curb these incidents.

- DR SHEETAL BHOOLA

Last month, there were fresh allegations that the tenders in KwaZulu-Natal had been rigged to benefit allies of KZN Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka. The Association has said it is consulting its legal team and will be reporting the matter to the Public Protector.

The successful tender awardees were listed as candidates that are 'intended to be awarded, which does demystify the allegations.

Minister Gwarube has indicated that the programme feeds approximately 10 million children twice a day and that she will spearhead the investigation. The meals are provided during the school day and administered by school heads, teachers, and principals.

The school feeding programmes have attained their objectives of contributing towards the elimination of hunger among children and lessening the impact on food-insecure households, but we question if these meals meet the nutritional needs of these children and if the impact of this programme is effective and aligned with the holistic objectives of the National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security and the Bill of Rights in the Constitution.

It clearly stipulates in section 28 (1) that every child has the right to basic nutrition. The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child indicates that "every child shall have the right to enjoy the best attainable state of physical, mental, and spiritual health," and article 14 (2) (c) says that the state should take the appropriate measures to ensure children are provided with adequate nutrition.