Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has seen a significant improvement in her daily life thanks 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 eating habits. Previously, they struggled to find breakfast options, but since participating in the MBG program, her child now eagerly finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving the free meals for the past nine days, praised the taste and nutritional value of the meals, highlighting the benefits it has brought to her family’s diet management routine.
At nine months pregnant, Vincencia is just one of the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who have benefitted from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She commended the government’s initiative to offer free and nutritious meals to rural mothers and children, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate protein and variety in kids’ diets. Vincencia expressed her optimism for the continuity of the program, believing in its essential role in enhancing community health and well-being.
Administered by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba focuses on delivering meals to schools and health posts, particularly catering to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By utilizing locally sourced ingredients and emphasizing a well-balanced diet, the program aims to tackle health challenges and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s testimonial serves as a testament to the tangible impact of the MBG program on numerous families residing in South West Sumba.