Karongi, Rwanda – In a pivotal move to address malnutrition and stunting among children, World Vision Rwanda, in collaboration with Karongi District, launched the Jyejuru Kibondo Initiative on November 30, 2024. This groundbreaking Professional Umuganda campaign focuses on promoting healthy child development, reducing stunting rates, and improving family well-being in the region.
The launch event in Gitega Cell, Rugabano Sector, was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Hon. Kayisire Marie Solange, State Minister for Local Government; Mr. NTIBITURA Jean Bosco, Governor of the Western Province; Madam Pauline Okumu, Country Director of World Vision Rwanda; Mr. Muzungu Gerald, Acting Mayor of Karongi District; and Mrs. Ingabire Assumpta, Director General for the National Child Development Agency (NCDA). Community members participated in impactful activities like tree planting and awareness campaigns addressing malnutrition among children under five years old.
Understanding the Malnutrition Crisis
Malnutrition remains a persistent public health issue in Rwanda, affecting 38% of children under five. In Karongi District, 25.5% of children under two are stunted, 8.4% are underweight, and 4.7% suffer from wasting.
Governor NTIBITURA Jean Bosco emphasized the importance of a united approach:
“Stunting remains a challenge in our communities, but it is not insurmountable. With unity, commitment, and focused interventions, we can ensure that every child in Karongi has a healthy start in life.”
Key Messages from Officials
Mr. Muzungu Gerald, Acting Mayor of Karongi District, highlighted the alignment of the initiative with Rwanda’s national goals:
“The Jyejuru Kibondo program, in partnership with World Vision, is a critical step toward achieving our national target of reducing stunting from 32.5% in 2020 to 15% by 2029. This ambitious goal reflects Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and nutrition of its children.”
The campaign theme, “Ending Stunting in Karongi District: A Non-Stunted Child is the Pride of the Family,” underscores the essential role of eradicating stunting for the well-being of children and their families.
Mrs. Ingabire Assumpta, Director General of NCDA, praised the initiative’s complementary efforts in advancing child health:
“The Jyejuru Kibondo Initiative not only tackles malnutrition but also complements existing programs like Mwana Wiriwe Ute, which tracks the daily well-being of children. Together, these efforts ensure that children in Karongi thrive at every stage of their growth.”
The Jyejuru Kibondo Solution: Key Interventions
The initiative employs a community-driven approach to address the root causes of malnutrition through the following strategies:
Growth Monitoring and Rehabilitation
Children under five undergo regular growth checks, with malnourished children receiving targeted rehabilitation programs. These include intensive 12-day interventions and long-term household follow-ups.
Nutrition Education and Cooking Demonstrations
Monthly cooking sessions empower caregivers to prepare balanced meals using locally available ingredients, promoting sustainable nutrition practices.
Hygiene and Sanitation Awareness
Educational efforts focus on enhancing caregivers’ understanding of proper hygiene, especially during complementary feeding periods for children aged 6-23 months.
Economic Empowerment
Parents are encouraged to join Savings for Transformation groups, fostering economic stability and improving household food security.
Home-Based Early Childhood Development (ECD)
The initiative integrates nutrition into broader services like education, agriculture, and health, ensuring a holistic approach to child development.
Collaborative Efforts Aligned with National Goals
The Jyejuru Kibondo Initiative aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its ambitious objective is to reduce stunting rates from 33% to 15% by 2029.
Madam Pauline Okumu, Country Director of World Vision Rwanda, underscored the organization’s commitment:
“Addressing malnutrition requires a community-centered approach, efficient policies, and strong partnerships. This initiative aligns with World Vision’s mission to improve the well-being of the most vulnerable children. We aim to reach 540,000 children by 2025 with enhanced nutrition services.”
Building a Healthier Future Together
The Jyejuru Kibondo Initiative is more than a campaign to combat malnutrition—it represents a vision for a healthier, more prosperous Karongi District and Rwanda.
This year-long campaign will continue to engage families, health workers, and local leaders, demonstrating the power of collective action to transform lives.
As Hon. Kayisire Marie Solange stated:
“Investing in the health and nutrition of our children is an investment in Rwanda’s future. By working together, we can ensure every child grows up healthy, strong, and ready to contribute to their community.”
Through its community-driven approach, the Jyejuru Kibondo Initiative showcases Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of its youngest citizens.
Stay connected with World Vision Rwanda and Karongi District for updates on this transformative journey to eradicate malnutrition and ensure every child thrives.
