Fighting Childhood Malnutrition: Sovu Health Center’s “KUNDWA KIBONDO” Initiative

In response to alarming rates of stunting and malnutrition observed among children under five years old in Sovu Cell, Huye District, the Sovu Health Center initiated an innovative program called KUNDWA KIBONDO. This program has mobilized community resources and fostered collaborative efforts to ensure the health and well-being of the youngest members of the community.

The KUNDWA KIBONDO program employs a multifaceted approach to combatting child malnutrition. Among its strategies is the “Igi ry’umwana” initiative, where health center workers contribute 200 Rwandan francs monthly, community health workers contribute 100 francs, and sector workers contribute 300 francs. This pooled fund supports various nutritional interventions.

One standout strategy is the IGIKONI CY’AKAGARI, held every Monday at the cell level. Here, children under five gather to eat a healthy diet, reinforcing good nutritional practices. Additionally, community health workers receive training on preventing malnutrition and promote the cultivation of fruits and vegetables through kitchen gardens, known locally as “akarima k’igikoni.”

A unique aspect of KUNDWA KIBONDO is the parenting initiative termed “KUBYARA MURI BATISIMU.” In this strategy, a health center worker, cell worker, community health worker, or volunteer adopts a child suffering from malnutrition to ensure continuous follow-up and support. This method emphasizes a holistic approach to the child’s mental and physical health.

Soeur Solange Uwanyirigira, the director of Sovu Health Center, highlights the significance of this parenting strategy. “Parenting in the fight against stunting among children is one of numerous strategies developed for that purpose. It ensures that we can monitor the child’s progress towards recovery closely,” she said. She explained that when KUNDWA KIBONDO began, there was no immediate cure for stunting, so they focused on treating various illnesses and solving problems to ensure children’s health.

Community health worker Uwimbabazi Xavera elaborated on their role, saying, “We supervise the children’s mental health and contribute 100 francs every month to support KUNDWA KIBONDO.” Her dedication exemplifies the community’s commitment to the program.

Niyonsaba Uwizeyimana, a resident of Sovu Cell, shared her experience with the support provided by community health workers. “They help us be part of IGIKONI CY’AKAGARI and teach us how to prepare healthy diets. We also receive supplements like SHISHA KIBONDO,” she said, highlighting the practical support offered to families.

Habyarimana Etienne, the director of the Health Department in Huye District, spoke about the broader impact of the program. “Our role in fighting malnutrition and stunting involves partnering with the National Child Development Agency (NCDA) to provide supplements like SHISHA KIBONDO. Over the past two years, we’ve reduced the stunting and malnutrition rate from 30-33% to 19.6%. Our district’s target is to bring this rate below 16.7%,” he explained. This progress aligns with Rwanda’s national target, which aims to reduce the stunting rate among children.

The KUNDWA KIBONDO program stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to child health, the Sovu Health Center and its partners are making significant strides in the fight against malnutrition and stunting, offering hope and a healthier future for the children of Huye District.

Mukantwali Magnifique