Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, shared how the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program has brought positive changes to her daily life. Being a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, she expressed gratitude for the program, stating that her child now finishes every meal provided, unlike before when they had to make do with whatever they could find for breakfast. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for nine days, praised the tastiness and nutritional value of the meals, which have also helped improve her family’s eating habits. The program has made food distribution throughout the day easier for them.
As a pregnant woman, Vincencia is among the beneficiaries of the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village, which cater specifically to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. She commended the government’s initiative to provide free and nutritious food to rural mothers and children, emphasizing the positive impact on ensuring adequate protein and variety in kids’ meals. Vincencia expressed her hope for the program to continue long-term, believing in its significance for the overall improvement of 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, targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By incorporating locally sourced ingredients and promoting well-balanced nutrition, the program aims to tackle health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s experience exemplifies how the MBG program is making a significant difference in the lives of families in South West Sumba.
