Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, shared her positive experience with the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia expressed how the program has made a difference in their daily lives. Previously, they would have whatever they could find for breakfast, but with the introduction of the MBG program, her child now eats every meal provided. Over the past nine days, Vincencia has been receiving free meals and she emphasized the taste and nutritional value of the food for her child. She also mentioned how the program has helped improve their family’s eating habits, making food distribution throughout the day more manageable.
Vincencia, who is nine months pregnant, is just one of many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s initiative to provide free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, noting the positive impact it has on ensuring children receive meals with enough protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her desire for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its importance in promoting community health.
The MBG program in Southwest Sumba is managed by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) and aims to provide meals to schools and health posts, focusing on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By using locally sourced ingredients and prioritizing balanced nutrition, the program addresses health issues and works to reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story illustrates how the MBG program is making a significant difference in the lives of many families in South West Sumba.
