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. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia shared how the program has benefited her family. Previously, they would have whatever food they could find for breakfast, but since the MBG program started, her child now finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for the past nine days, emphasized the delicious taste of the meals and their nutritional value for her child. She also mentioned how the program has helped improve their family’s eating habits, making it easier to manage food distribution throughout the day.
Being nine months pregnant, Vincencia is one of the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who benefit directly from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s efforts in providing free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, highlighting the positive impact in ensuring that kids receive meals with sufficient protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her hope for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its importance for the improvement of community health.
Managed by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba aims to provide meals to schools and health posts, specifically targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. Using locally sourced ingredients and focusing on well-balanced nutrition, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s experience is just one example of how the MBG program is making a meaningful difference in the lives of many families in South West Sumba.
