DR Congo: From Malnutrition To Abundance: The Impact Of World Vision's Childhood Rescue Program

By Rodrigue Harakandi, Communications Officer

World Vision has been working with communities in Binza, DRC, since 2020 to address the root causes of poverty and the urgent nutritional needs of children. 

Since then, more than 4,500 children have benefited from nutritional treatment through World Vision's support, and their families have joined farming groups under the Childhood Rescue program, now called Nexus Accelerator Fund/Spotlight.  

Within these groups, women are made aware of the best nutritional practices, are trained in the best agricultural practices and benefit from World Vision support in all areas necessary for their development. This is the case of the MUUNGANO group located in the Nyamilima health zone, which has demonstrated its dynamism by posting very good results with its large-scale production of rice, vegetables and vegetables. Around ten tonnes of cabbage and other vegetables are produced each season, and to date the group has attracted over 150 members. 

“It all started when my daughter MAGNIFIQUE fell into malnutrition. I was fortunate to have the support of World Vision, which treated my daughter and led me to this MUUNGANO group. Today, MAGNIFIQUE is doing well, and my whole family benefits from the food we produce here, not to mention the benefits of my rabbit breeding, which I keep at home,” recounts Ms Odette, 40, a member of the valiant Nyamilima group. 

These groups of farmers not only farm, they are also good breeders of cattle and small livestock, with support from World Vision, which provides them with breeding stock and training in animal husbandry. 

“Through the new NEXUS approach, World Vision hopes to provide an immediate response to the problems of malnutrition in Nyabanira and other targeted health areas, while tackling the root causes of poverty by strengthening local institutions to also build a more just and inclusive society where children and families can survive, adapt and thrive,” emphasized Ignace KAVANGA, Spotlight Project Manager.

In 2024, World Vision has broadened its scope by launching these same activities in the Nyabanira, KASAVE, Katwiguru and Kiseguro health areas. To date, these health areas have been a cause for serious concern, given the alarming mortality and morbidity rates linked to malnutrition. But hope is high in the eyes of the inhabitants, who have witnessed the impact of World Vision's program in other areas.