Governor Susan Kihika held a meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Engineers Without Borders-Israel, Michal Dolev, to discuss plans for expanding spirulina production in Nakuru County. The initiative aims to enhance the Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) feeding program by fortifying the Uji (porridge) served to children with nutrient-rich spirulina.

During the meeting, Governor Kihika highlighted the success of the pilot phase in Lare, Njoro, where ECDE pupils have already been consuming Uji enriched with spirulina produced at Keriko Secondary School. Spirulina, often called a “superfood,” is rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium, as well as antioxidants. The next phase of the project will see spirulina production scaled up at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) in Soilo, where farmers will be trained to grow and produce spirulina.

“We are committed to ensuring that all 64,000 children in our ECDEs benefit from this enriched Uji program. Spirulina not only improves the nutritional quality of their meals but also offers new income opportunities for our farmers,” said Governor Kihika.

She further encouraged women’s groups across the county to embrace spirulina farming, adding that the project would empower local farmers while addressing the nutrition needs of children.

Governor Kihika also announced plans to train farmers in producing Azolla and Duckweed, which would provide sustainable solutions for animal feed, particularly for poultry and fish farming.

“This partnership marks an important step in making Nakuru the premier producer of spirulina in Kenya, while also creating new livelihood avenues for our farmers,” she added.

The meeting signals Nakuru County’s commitment to improving child nutrition and empowering local communities through innovative agricultural practices.