HarvestPlus recently hosted a learning event at Kamaget Secondary School in Bomet County, Kenya bringing together farmers, government officials, scientists, and development partners to celebrate the achievements of the Nutritious Home-Grown School Meals project in Kenya. H.E. Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok of Bomet County was the guest of honor, joined by HarvestPlus CEO Arun Baral.

The event showcased how integrating biofortified crops into school meals strengthens the connection between nutrition, education, and agriculture for sustainable community development. Participants toured the school garden, where flourishing biofortified Nyota beans highlighted the project’s success working directly with schools.

“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to eradicating malnutrition and securing the future of our children through the integration of Biofortified Crops into School Meals”, said Governor Barchok. “This initiative is a deliberate strategy to build resilient food systems that empower our farmers with profitable, nutrient-rich crops while ensuring our children receive nutritious meals for their growth and cognitive development,” he added. 

So far, more than 550 schools across Bomet, Narok, Embu, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties have adopted Nyota beans in school meals and established school gardens. These gardens provide hands-on learning for students and foster community awareness of biofortification. The project’s collaborative approach with partners from multiple sectors at national and sub-national levels reinforces nutrition as a multisectoral priority.

“Our partnership with the public and private sectors in Kenya is driving meaningful change by connecting agriculture, nutrition, and education for sustainable community development,” said Penina Muoki, Project Manager at HarvestPlus.

During the event, HarvestPlus CEO led discussions with Governor Barchok on sustainably building resilient food systems through integrating biofortified crops. These crops empower smallholder farmers, improve livelihoods, and ensure children receive home-grown nutritious meals and nutrition education, supporting their growth and learning ability.

“I am excited about what I have seen in Bomet County today. Children are the future of any country, and at HarvestPlus, our mission is to make food more nutritious, so they get a strong start in life, leading to the brightest future possible,” Arun Baral.

Nyota beans have overcome early adoption barriers, including limited seed availability and high grain prices. Today, both seed and grain are widely available and affordable, priced similarly to non-biofortified bean varieties in both formal and informal markets. Their fast-cooking trait also reduces fuel costs for schools as demonstrated by the St. Francis Kiptulon Secondary School in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The school grows Nyota beans on 1.5 acres and operates a seed-exchange system with parents to offset fees and generate income.

The Bomet learning event underscored the power of innovation and collaboration. By scaling the integration of biofortified crops into school feeding programs, stakeholders are building healthier communities and stronger food systems. Supported by leaders like Governor Barchok and institutions such as HarvestPlus, AGRA, and the Rockefeller Foundation, this model offers a sustainable pathway where children enjoy nutrient-rich meals, farmers access reliable markets, and communities thrive.