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. Previously, they had to make do with whatever they could find for breakfast, but since the start of the MBG program, her child now eagerly finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for the past nine days, commended the delicious taste of the meals and their nutritional value for her child. She also highlighted how the program has helped enhance her family’s eating habits, making it easier to manage food distribution throughout the day.
Pregnant and nine months along, Vincencia is part of the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who directly benefit from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s initiative in offering free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, emphasizing the positive impact it has had in ensuring children receive meals with adequate protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her hope for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its significance in improving community health.
Administered by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba aims to supply meals to schools and health posts, specifically catering to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By utilizing locally sourced ingredients and prioritizing a well-balanced nutritional approach, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s testimonial serves as a prime example of how the MBG program is positively impacting the lives of numerous families in South West Sumba.
