In Baoro, in western Central African Republic, about 200 kilometers from the border with Cameroon, schools benefit from a school feeding program funded by the World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Central African government. In the town's primary schools, the school meals are much more than just a meal. In a context marked by poverty and food insecurity, they play a vital role in combating malnutrition. This program also helps improve school enrollment: it encourages parents to send their children to school and helps reduce dropout rates.

In a large room converted into a canteen, the students are seated at desks, neatly lined up. Each one holds their plate, patiently waiting their turn.

The atmosphere is hushed in the dining hall of this school located in western Central African Republic. When his name is called, Mariano, a fifth-grade student, gets up, goes to the serving table, receives his meal, and then calmly returns to his seat. "I love the food we're served at school," he explains. "Before, when I didn't have anything to eat, I was hungry during class and couldn't concentrate. Now, I learn better and I come to school every day."

"It's truly a source of motivation."

This time is not just for meals, but also a time for learning where respect for rules, patience, and living together are essential. Eliane, a third-grade student, adds: "At home, it's hard for us to find something to eat. School is like a safe place where I can learn and eat for free. It's really motivating."

This ambitious program, according to the World Food Programme (WFP) and the government, aims to distribute varied school meals to 400,000 children, prepared using local ingredients. Marie-Solange, one of the cooks, is delighted: "The meals have increased school attendance, especially among girls. This is a project that must be sustained, because the future of the country depends on the education of our children."

"When a child eats at school, he stays in class, he learns, he dreams."

Rasmus Egendal, former WFP representative who launched this school canteen project, explains the foundations and impact of this initiative on student development and success: “Today, more than 230,000 children benefit from school canteens, and it’s a ticket to the future. When a child eats at school, they stay in class, they learn, they dream. A meal is the difference between giving up and succeeding.”

He continued: “It’s also a gesture that nourishes the community. The produce comes from local farmers, creating jobs. Without this support, thousands of children risk dropping out of school and families will lose a source of stability. School canteens are a lifeline and an engine of development for the future. And each meal truly represents a promise of a better future. We mustn’t neglect this opportunity.”

The WFP and the Central African government intend to cover all schools in the country in the coming months.