Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has seen a positive change in her daily life thanks to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. Being a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia shared how the program has significantly impacted her and her child’s life. Previously, they would eat whatever they could find for breakfast, but with the introduction of the MBG program, her child now finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been partaking in the program for the past nine days, praised the deliciousness of the meals and their nutritional benefits for her child. She also mentioned how the program has helped in improving her family’s eating habits, making it easier for them to manage food distribution throughout the day.
At nine months pregnant, Vincencia is one of many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting directly from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She commended the government’s initiative in offering free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, stressing the positive impact it has in ensuring children receive meals packed with sufficient protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her desire for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its significance in enhancing community health.
Under the management of the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba aims to deliver meals to schools and health posts, targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers specifically. By utilizing locally sourced ingredients and focusing on well-balanced nutrition, the program aims to tackle health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story serves as just one example of how the MBG program is positively impacting the lives of numerous families in South West Sumba.
