In January, Indonesia launched an initiative to feed 82.9 million children and pregnant women by 2029 — an ambitious plan for the world’s fourth most populous nation, and one closely watched by other countries hoping to implement their own free meal programs.
Six months in, experts question whether the infrastructure, regulations, and financing are in place for Indonesia to meet those goals.
“It's quite unlikely that in the first year they will get to [the targeted] number,” said Diah S. Saminarsih, founder and CEO of the Center for Indonesia's Strategic Development Initiatives, or CISDI.
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About the author
Rebecca L. Root
Rebecca L. Root is a freelance reporter for Devex based in Bangkok. Previously senior associate & reporter, she produced news stories, video, and podcasts as well as partnership content. She has a background in finance, travel, and global development journalism and has written for a variety of publications while living and working in Bangkok, New York, London, and Barcelona.
