Caritas Byumba and World Vision, Fighting Child Malnutrition in Kageyo via 12 Days program :We appreciated your visit”
Urgent actions
During the Kageyo Stakeholder Dialogue, participants identified several urgent actions needed to address child malnutrition and improve overall nutrition in the community. A key priority was enhancing access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods. Caregivers suggested expanding programs like the 12-day Hearth Nutrition initiative, which teaches families how to prepare balanced meals using locally available ingredients. Participants emphasized that these programs should reach more households, particularly during the lean season, when food insecurity is highest. Participants also highlighted the need f... Read moreor improved hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce illness-related malnutrition. They proposed community-led awareness campaigns and training on handwashing, safe water use, and proper waste disposal. Mothers and caregivers recommended involving local leaders and ECD facilitators to reinforce these practices consistently at home and in schools. Another action identified was nutrition education and capacity building. Participants requested more training on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and micronutrient-rich meal preparation. They suggested regular workshops and peer-to-peer learning sessions where experienced mothers could share practical knowledge with others in the community. Economic support and access to resources were also emphasized. Participants proposed forming cooperatives or community groups to collectively source and distribute affordable nutritious foods. They recommended engaging local government and development partners to provide small-scale support, such as seeds, livestock, or cooking demonstrations. Finally, participants stressed the importance of community monitoring and collaboration. They proposed establishing local committees to track child growth, share best practices, and promptly identify cases of malnutrition. Read less



