Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has seen a significant improvement in her daily life due to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia shared how the program has positively impacted her and her child’s nutrition. Previously, they had to make do with whatever food they could find for breakfast, but since participating in the MBG program, her child now eagerly finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been benefiting from the free meals for the past nine days, highlighted the delicious taste and nutritional value of the meals for her child. She also mentioned how the program has helped enhance her family’s eating habits and simplified food distribution throughout the day.
Being in her ninth month of pregnancy, Vincencia is just one of the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting directly from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She commended the government for its initiative to offer free and nutritious meals to rural mothers and children, recognizing the positive impact it has in ensuring children receive meals rich in protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her optimism for the sustainability of the program, believing in its significance in enhancing community health.
The MBG program in Southwest Sumba, managed by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), aims to supply meals to schools and health posts, specifically catering to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and young children. By utilizing locally sourced ingredients and prioritizing balanced nutrition, the program seeks to combat health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story serves as a testament to how the MBG program is bringing about a meaningful difference in the lives of numerous families in South West Sumba.
