Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has experienced a positive change in her daily life thanks to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia expressed the program’s benefits for herself and her child. She mentioned that before the MBG program, they had limited options for breakfast, but now her child finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for the past nine days, emphasized the delicious taste of the meals and the nutritional value they offer, especially for her child. She also shared how the program has helped improve her family’s eating habits, simplifying food distribution throughout the day.
At nine months pregnant, Vincencia is among the pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s initiative in providing free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, highlighting the positive impact on ensuring children receive adequate protein and varied meals. Vincencia expressed her desire for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its significance in promoting community health.
Under the management of the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba focuses on providing meals to schools and health posts, specifically targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By using locally sourced ingredients and prioritizing balanced nutrition, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story exemplifies how the MBG program is bringing about meaningful changes in the lives of many families in South West Sumba.
