The solidarity of mothers in Ngozi transforms their families' lives with UNICEF's support.

Violette Nkurunziza, 32 years old, was met in the province of Ngozi on Nyabihanga hill and is the mother of three children: Zainabu Shurwe, 11 years old; Darcy Iranezereza, 9 years old; and little Keilla Nishimwe, 3 years old. When Keilla began to show signs of severe malnutrition, Violette knew she had to act quickly. She decided to take her to see a mother of light on the hill. The mothers of light are volunteers chosen by the community itself, trained to assess the nutritional status of children and teach families how to properly nourish themselves with local foods.

The mother of light from Nyabihanga hill, Louise Nduwimana, examined Keilla and admitted her into the nutritional rehabilitation program. Thanks to the advice and care received, Violette was able to properly nourish her child and meticulously follow the guidance given by the mother of light. During this period of care, Violette met other mothers who were also seeking help from the mother of light on their hill. These daily encounters allowed the mothers to create strong bonds, supporting each other.

Over time, they formalized this mutual aid by creating a solidarity group under the leadership of the mother of light. This group allows them not only to help each other but also to practice saving and credit. This way, they can meet their children's needs without having to beg or rely on external assistance.

"Being in this solidarity group has been very beneficial for me," says Violette. "At first, thanks to the group, I bought a chicken that laid eggs. I gave some of the eggs to my children and sold the rest. Then, I continued saving and was able to buy a goat, and now I have a pig and guinea pigs."

This solidarity group has enabled Violette and other mothers in the community to rent two small plots of land where they grow food to feed their children, such as corn, beans, cassava, bananas, and some vegetables. This community initiative is essential in the fight against malnutrition on their hills.

To combat malnutrition in some provinces of the country, UNICEF has supported the training of thousands of mothers of light in various hills. This community approach focuses on fighting chronic malnutrition by actively involving mothers in nutrition programs. Part of their harvest is used in households, and another part is sold to fund the solidarity group's activities and help a member in need. Thanks to this initiative, many families, like Violette's, have seen a significant improvement in their quality of life, health, and nutrition of their children.

The commitment of Violette and the other mothers shows the importance of community solidarity and the empowerment of women to combat serious problems like malnutrition. Their efforts and determination illustrate how local initiatives can have a profound and lasting impact on children's well-being, health, and nutrition.

The initiative supported by UNICEF has enabled thousands of families to overcome malnutrition through the solidarity and empowerment of mothers. Violette's example highlights the importance of these community efforts to sustainably improve children's nutrition and well-being.