Burundi has one of the highest rates of malnutrition in the world. According to the World Food Programme, 52% of children under the age of five (approximately 5.6 million children) suffer from chronic malnutrition. In addition, 57.6% of children under the age of five are affected by stunting.
Malnutrition in Burundi
Poverty, poor diet and a limited access to healthcare all contribute to the high rates of malnutrition. The situation is exacerbated by conflict and climate change which have led to widespread food insecurity.
Malnutrition not only affects physical health but also mental development, leading to long-term consequences for individuals and society as a whole. Despite ongoing efforts to combat malnutrition, the situation remains dire, highlighting the urgent need for continued support and investment in this area.
How Twiteho Amagara helped mothers and children
As part of the Twiteho Amagara project, 9,500 children under the age of five were treated for moderate chronic malnutrition.
Niyonzima Goreth, a widow from Kayanza province, had been struggling to make ends meet for herself, her daughter, and her granddaughter. They were unable to afford adequate nutrition, and as a result, her granddaughter was diagnosed with acute malnutrition at just five months old.
The Twiteho Amagara project came to their rescue. With the help of the ‘Mamans Lumières,’ Goreth learned how to balance their diet based on the products they already had. Spending two hours twice a week with one of the Mamans Lumières proved to be a life-changing experience. Her granddaughter’s health improved. Despite their challenging circumstances, Goreth and her family were determined to overcome malnutrition and lead healthy lives.
“Today in my house we regained a smile!”
What is the “Mamans Lumière” programme?
The Mamans Lumière initiative combats the pervasive issue of chronic malnutrition, particularly among children. Despite Burundi’s fertile soil, it has the highest proportion of chronically malnourished children globally.
Mamans Lumières, or Light Mothers, are community volunteers in Burundi who act as role models to support other mothers in fighting child hunger. Empowered with knowledge on nutrition and provided with seeds for nutrient-rich vegetable gardens they educate and assist other mothers and identify signs of malnutrition in children, referring them to specialist care.
As part of the Twiteho Amagara programme, HealthNet TPO led a consortium with WeWorld-GVC, Medica Mondiale and Pathfinder International, to improve health and mental health in Burundi, with a focus on maternal and child health. 104 community health workers and 22 mamans Lumières were trained on nutrition and monitoring the health of children under the age of five in their communities.