As part of efforts to combat child stunting and improve the well-being of vulnerable families, the SOS Village Nyamagabe organization has launched initiatives in partnership with Nyamagabe District to eliminate malnutrition in the Uwinkingi Sector.
The organization collaborates with early childhood development centers (ECDs) to provide school supplies, build kitchen gardens, and establish community kitchens aimed at teaching parents how to prepare balanced meals. Edouard Mutabazi Byinshi, the director of SOS Village Nyamagabe, stated that they are currently supporting 103 families in Uwinkingi Sector, helping them shift their mindset regarding nutrition and healthy food preparation.
“We help parents understand that eating well doesn’t mean just having meat and fries, but knowing how to use what they already have. Now, they know how to prepare meals using foods like amaranth (inombe), potatoes, sweet potatoes, leafy greens (dodo), and small fish (indagara), and we’ve noticed a change in their thinking.” He expressed.
Many of the supported families previously faced domestic conflicts that led to children being neglected causing them to go hungry, drop out of school, or end up on the streets. Lauranse Niringiyimana, a resident of Kabisekuru village in Kibyagira cell, Uwinkingi Sector, is one of the parents who has seen a transformation.
“I’ve now learned how to feed my children balanced meals. I used to sell eggs at the market, but now my children eat well and don’t fall sick often. At home, we now share parenting responsibilities, and I’m thankful to the government for helping us change our mindset.” She shared.
Agnes Uwamariya, the vice mayor of Nyamagabe district in charge of Social Affairs, explained that Uwinkingi Sector has traditionally faced issues like polygamy and informal unions. However, government programs promoting women’s empowerment have led to positive changes. “The principle of gender equality and complementarity has helped men understand that raising children is not just a woman’s responsibility. Now, fathers are also helping to ensure their children eat nutritious food.” She spoke.
She called on everyone to take part in improving family welfare, especially by focusing on children’s health, since they represent Rwanda’s future. “No man should be comfortable of seeing his child malnourished or unhealthy. Good parenting starts at home and requires cooperation between spouses,” she emphasized.
The initiatives by SOS Village Nyamagabe are expected to support families in Uwinkingi Sector and beyond to permanently eradicate malnutrition and raise healthy children. The organization is also working with sectors in Nyaruguru district and plans to expand its activities to Gisagara district.
Story by: Venuste HABINEZA