In a bold move to tackle child hunger across Africa, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has launched the End School-Age Hunger Fund (ESAH), an initiative designed to provide nutritious meals to millions of school children. The fund, approved on March 20, 2025, aims to expand school meal programs, boost agricultural productivity and strengthen rural economies.
With hunger and malnutrition posing major threats to Africa’s future, this initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring that no child goes to school on an empty stomach. By enhancing existing programs and creating new ones, ESAH will not only improve nutrition but also contribute to better educational outcomes and social protection.
The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), a major player in global philanthropy, has already committed $50 million to kickstart the initiative. CIFF has pledged an additional $50 million once the AfDB makes its initial contribution, further demonstrating its dedication to the cause. The foundation is also rallying support from other high-profile donors, including the Aliko Dangote Foundation, to expand the fund’s impact.
The implementation of ESAH will be managed in collaboration with the African Development Fund, AfDB’s concessional financing arm. The initiative is expected to run for five years, a time frame designed to establish a strong proof of concept and ensure long-term sustainability.
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Speaking at the launch, Dr. Beth Dunford, AfDB’s Vice President for Agriculture, Human, and Social Development, emphasized the importance of sustained commitment from African governments. “The End School-Age Hunger Fund will work to secure a five-year commitment from targeted countries, allowing us to establish a model that can outlast the initial funding phase.”
This initiative is more than just a feeding program—it’s a game-changer for education, economic development, and Africa’s fight against hunger. By ensuring that children receive consistent, nutritious meals, ESAH has the potential to break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition, paving the way for a healthier, more prosperous continent.
With the backing of major donors and a clear roadmap for success, ESAH could become the defining force in Africa’s battle against child hunger. The question now is: will African leaders and global partners rise to the challenge and support this transformative effort?
