Community Factors for School Feeding Program Effectiveness in Monduli, Tanzania: A Community Perspective

Abstract

School feeding programs (SFPs) are widely recognized as critical interventions for addressing child malnutrition, food insecurity, and poor school attendance. In Monduli district, Tanzania, where pastoralist livelihoods are vulnerable to recurrent climatic stressors, understanding factors shaping SFP effectiveness is essential for sustainability. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 163 households with children enrolled in two primary schools, with one implementing an SFP (Naitolia Primary School) and one without (Mswakini Juu Primary School). Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression, and good use of spatial mapping as a method. Awareness of the school feeding program was universal (100%) in the study area. Participation differed sharply by school, with all households from Naitolia Primary School participating in the program and none from Mswakini Juu Primary School, reflecting school-level implementation differences. Household size and daily meal frequency significantly predicted participation and reported challenges. Spatial analysis showed higher participation in high-altitude areas compared to low-altitude areas (86.0% vs. 26.7%). Economic constraints and climate-related shocks were the most frequently reported barriers (73.6%). Although perceived benefits were high, 80% of respondents expressed concern about the program's long-term sustainability. SFPs in Monduli are highly valued, but sustainability is threatened by economic and geographic barriers. Integration of school gardens and stronger government support could enhance sustainability.