It is an engagement spearheaded by female employees from I&M Bank (Rwanda Plc) who visited the Rubungo Health Centre on October 16 to support malnourished children in Kibenga cell, Ndera sector, Gasabo District.
The initiative aligns with the Bank’s commitment to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (zero hunger) and SDG 3 (good health and well-being).
Through a monthly savings programme, the all-women association empowered by the Bank has allocated resources to assist 353 children, who received immediate aid during this visit.
The event united health workers, local authorities, and community members from Ndera sector and Kibenga cell, emphasising the importance of collective action in addressing malnutrition.
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According to Christine Igiraneza, the president of the I&M Bank Ladies Association, after brainstorming ways to make an impact, they recognised the urgent issue of child malnutrition in Gasabo District and decided to take action.
"This is one of the programmes we implemented in order to address the pressing issue of child malnutrition in our community; however, we recognise the need for collective action, and we aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children in Gasabo district,” she said.
Igiraneza also added, "As we move forward, we are dedicated to expanding our initiatives and collaborating with local authorities to further support the country’s efforts in promoting health and well-being.”
Sister Colleta Uwamahoro, the head of Rubungo Health Centre, explained some of the causes of malnutrition in the community, adding they have been able to combat it with the help of I&M Bank and their other partners.
"One of the reasons for malnutrition is that parents often leave to seek work, which leaves them with insufficient time to care for their children. However, instability within the family can also contribute to this issue,” she said.
Uwamahoro emphasised their collaborative efforts in combating malnutrition, stating, "We teach them how to create balanced meals and promote the concept of green gardening.”
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During the I&M Bank Ladies Association’s visit to the Rubungo Health Centre, key activities included a tour of the nutrition centre, taking measurements of children’s growth, and gathering testimonials. The visit also focused on collaborative efforts to prevent malnutrition and ensure proper nourishment for children in the community.
Head of Health and Social Protection in Gasabo District, Alphonse Rutarindwa, urged the community to take decisive action against malnutrition and prioritise the health of their community.
"Being healthy goes hand in hand with wealth and a happy life, which is why I am asking all of you to join us in the fight against malnutrition and stunting. If we set a common goal as a community and combine our efforts, we will succeed,” he stated.
He emphasised the need for urgency, noting that Gasabo often ranks highest regarding malnutrition.
"It’s essential that we address this issue promptly. Malnutrition is often a consequence of other family challenges, and so everyone must contribute to this effort,” he added.
Jacqueline Nyirangendo, who brought her grandson for feeding and screening, expressed her gratitude to I&M Bank Ladies for their support during the visit. She noted that her grandchild has been gaining weight since she began bringing him to the health centre.
"They teach us how to prepare balanced meals, which has helped me understand how to properly feed my grandson. They sometimes even provide food items to help us, and I am really grateful for that,” she added.