Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: The Kuwirirana Care Group’s Fight Against Child Malnutrition

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

Mashonaland East – The Kuwirirana Care Group, Mutoko District has become a vital initiative in the battle against child malnutrition, significantly contributing to food and nutrition security for the community. This grassroots effort mobilises local resources and empowers families to ensure that their children receive the essential nutrients needed for healthy development. By addressing the nutritional needs of young children, the group is fostering a healthier future for the entire village.

Kuwirirana Caregroup Members Preparing Maoresa Porridge in Ward 1- Janha Village, Mutoko District

Background

The Kuwirirana Care Group was established as part of a broader initiative to combat malnutrition in the district. This community-led model brings together families, health workers and local leaders to create a supportive network focused on improving nutritional outcomes. So far the initiative has trained 12 Lead Mothers and 3 Community Based Health Workers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective feeding programmes and mobilise resources. Since its inception, the programme has expanded to engage 38 villages in the area, fostering a collaborative approach to nutrition and health. The programme is fully supervised by the Ward Food and Nutrition Security Committee (WFNSC) who pay visits to the clusters, monitoring the cooking and feeding. The local Environmental Health Technician and Nutrition Assistant on the other hand give technical support.

Key Initiatives

The Kuwirirana Care Group focuses on training Lead Mothers and Community Based Health Workers to mobilise resources for feeding schemes aimed at children under five. Key initiatives include:

  • Cooking Demonstrations: Monthly cooking demonstrations feature nutrient-rich Maoresa porridge, designed to provide essential vitamins and minerals to combat malnutrition. These sessions have expanded to involve men in the community, encouraging them to participate in meal preparation and nutrition education.
  • Community Engagement: Lead Mothers recruit mothers and guardians into ‘Neighbour Groups’ of 10 or more, fostering community support and resource sharing. The programme has also actively involved men by encouraging them to support their partners in childcare and nutrition efforts, thereby promoting a more inclusive approach.
  • Screening for Malnutrition: Regular screenings are conducted by Community Based Health Workers to monitor the health of children and ensure timely intervention when needed. Men in the community have been engaged in these screenings, helping to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and health among families.

Impact and Outcomes

The impact of the Kuwirirana Care Group has been profound:

  1. Improved Nutritional Status: The feeding programme has resulted in noticeable improvements in the nutritional status of participating children. Parents have reported increased energy levels and better overall health among their children.
  2. Community Awareness: The initiative has raised awareness about nutrition and health issues within the community. Families are now more knowledgeable about balanced diets and the importance of nutrient-rich foods.
  3. Increased Participation: The involvement of men in nutrition education and meal preparation has fostered a sense of shared responsibility in childcare. This shift has not only strengthened family bonds but has also encouraged men to take an active role in supporting their partners and children.
  4. Sustainability Efforts: The active participation of traditional leaders, including Chief Charewa, has helped in mobilising resources and sustaining community interest in the initiative. Their involvement ensures that the programme is integrated into local governance and development plans.

Chief Charewa, Janha Village, Ward 1, Mutoko District – Chief Charewa highlighted that the care group model programme has helped the community’s efforts in combating child malnutrition. 

Conclusion

The Kuwirirana Care Group exemplifies the transformative power of community-driven initiatives in enhancing food and nutrition security. By prioritising the nutritional needs of children and actively involving men in the process, this group is not only addressing immediate health challenges but also laying the groundwork for a healthy community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Scaling Up Nutrition Stories of Positive Change: Takashinga Women in Action Centre– Empowering Women Against Malnutrition and Poverty

District Food and Nutrition Security Committees (DFNSCs) form the nucleus for tackling food and nutrition security in a coordinated and holistic manner, with specific core functions. They lead the coordination of food and nutrition security activities at the sub-national level by providing a platform for interaction among relevant Government ministry representatives, development partners, academia and civil society. In this collaborative framework all stakeholders are accountable for ensuring that their sectors meaningfully engage and contribute to improving food and nutrition security at all their levels of operation within the identified national priorities.

The Takashinga Women in Action Centre in Sanyati District, Mashonaland West, has emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women facing the multifaceted challenges of food and nutrition security and poverty. Established in the early 2000s, Takashinga Women in Action Centre began as a platform for women to discuss and address issues affecting their livelihoods, ultimately leading to the creation of an agriculture business centre designed to enhance food and nutrition security and economic stability.

Background

Recognising the pressing challenges faced by women and children, Government collaborated with key stakeholders to establish Takashinga Women in Action Centre, which focuses on empowering women through agricultural activities.

Key Initiatives

The centre spans six hectares of arable land, with current activities focusing on:

  • Poultry Production: The project includes raising broilers and roadrunners for meat and egg production.
  • Market Gardening: Women cultivate various vegetables including cabbages, tomatoes and maize, significantly contributing to improved nutrition within the community.
  • Fruit Production: Key fruits such as Papaya and Masawu are grown to diversify income sources.
  • Income Savings and Lending (ISALs): This initiative supports financial literacy and savings among participants.

Impact and Outcomes

The initiatives at Takashinga Women in Action Centre have led to substantial improvements in household income and food security. Currently, 33 women actively participate, fostering collaboration and reducing instances of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the community. Improved access to nutritious food has been a critical outcome, helping families to combat malnutrition and improve overall health.

Women of child bearing age testified that they have been able to bear healthy children due to diversity of food they have been consuming since the initiative commenced. Most of the mothers are happy with the growth of their children.

Women of child bearing age testified that they have been able to bear healthy children due to diversity of food they have been consuming since the initiative commenced. Most of the mothers are happy with the growth of their children.

Testimonials and Community Feedback

Beneficiaries have expressed gratitude for the positive changes in their lives, highlighting improved income and food and nutrition security. For instance, a project member reported her ability to feed her family and send her children to school, which was previously unmanageable due to financial constraints.

Mrs Nongai, a member of the project, highlighted that before the intervention they were living in poverty and were failing to send their children to school. 

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite notable successes, challenges persist particularly concerning water availability for irrigation. The centre is currently under-utilising its six hectares of land due to limited water access which hampers its capacity to produce sufficient food and meet community needs. Ongoing efforts are required to secure additional funding and resources for the centre’s expansion and sustainability.

Conclusion

The success of Takashinga Women in Action Centre underscores the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing social and economic challenges. By empowering women and fostering collaboration, Takashinga Women in Action Centre is paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future in Sanyati District, significantly enhancing food and nutrition security for its members and their families.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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