Rubavu district has unveiled a new program aimed at combating stunting by providing two egg-laying chickens to vulnerable families, The New Times has learned.

Despite the presence of vegetables and greens, including carrots and cabbages, the region still grapples with high rates of stunting, prompting this innovative initiative.

Renowned for its fertile soil and proximity to Lake Kivu, which facilitates fish farming, Rubavu serves as one of the country’s key food baskets.

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Nadine Nyirasafari, a resident of Rugerero Sector, emphasized the importance of regular mobilization campaigns to shift mindsets and reduce stunting. She highlighted instances where parents leave their children behind without adequate care while crossing into DR Congo for work.

The district has allocated over Rwf 46 million for the acquisition of 7,831 egg-laying chickens following approval from the district council. These chickens are expected to significantly contribute to addressing stunting.

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According to Pacifique Ishimwe, the Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, each needy family will receive two egg-laying chickens starting in April 2024, aiming to enhance their dietary intake. The initiative aims to reach 3,915 households.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes promoting antenatal care attendance, enhancing children's growth monitoring at the village level, increasing awareness of immunization attendance, and deworming.

Furthermore, efforts to increase knowledge on preparing balanced diets, monitoring nutrition commodities at the household level, and improving hygiene and sanitation are underway.

Stunting remains a significant concern in the Western Province, drawing attention from government officials during their visits to the region. Minister of Local Government, Jean-Claude Musabyimana, emphasized the importance of balanced nutrition during a previous visit to Rubavu district.

Data from Maternal, Child, and Community Health (MCCH) week in 2023 indicates a stunting rate of 20 percent for children under two years old in Rubavu district.

However, the Demographic and Health Survey by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows a decline from 46 percent in 2015 to 40 percent in 2020. Currently, there are 4024 stunted children in the district.