What would be the sources of funding for any expansion of the school feeding program?
Right now it is important to identify the partnerships needed to ensure a successful handover of the school feeding program to the national government. Identifying resource mobilization options through public and private funding is also important, especially as the country may be an oil exporting country by the end of the current program in 2012. These additional funds will greatly contribute to the efforts made by WFP, cooperating partners and stakeholders. The funds will also help build local capacity and facilitate the handover of the school feeding program to the national government.
What has been the effect of rising food prices in this funding effort?
Rising food prices have greatly impacted WFP in general, as well as the school feeding program component. Unlike most countries in the sub region, only 36% of São Tomé and Príncipe's population is involved in agriculture and the fishing sector. The remaining 64% belongs to the service sector. Most food is imported, with over 85% of the population buying food from markets. Food costs account for 70% of total household expenditures. Speculation and high prices are the principal economic risk factors for food insecurity in São Tomé and Príncipe. Increased prices have forced WFP to purchase most commodities in the international market at very high prices, above what was originally budgeted. Additionally, the school feeding project is not well resourced. Currently, WFP in Sao Tome and Principe has only 43% of the over 7.6 million (US) dollars it needs. WFP in São Tomé and Príncipe is seeking funding from the international community to compensate for this shortfall. Budget shortfalls and frequent pipeline breaks undermine WFP’s efforts to distribute the recommended food rations and meet nutritional need, and may prevent project goals from being achieved.
How can someone help the school feeding program?
WFP in São Tomé and Príncipe welcomes any contributions (in cash or in kind) from individuals and private companies who would like to support the School Feeding Program. Contributions can be made online at www.wfp.org, through our offices in Yaoundé, Dakar, Rome, or in any of WFP liaison offices in Geneva, New York, or Paris. The average cost of providing one meal for a child (including associated expenses such as transport and storage) is on average about 19 US cents, or US$34 a year (with a school year of 180 days). You can help WFP provide a meal for a child in school and give a gift of life, a gift of hope, and an investment for a brighter tomorrow.
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