Rwanda secures $55mn from WB to reduce chronic malnutrition

Rwanda has recently secured a $55 million financing deal from the World Bank to tackle the issue of chronic malnutrition among children in the country. The agreement, signed between the government of Rwanda and the World Bank, aims to significantly reduce cases of stunting among children under the age of 5. The funding will be utilized to implement bold strategies and deliver harmonized behavior change messages across various platforms to address the issue of malnutrition. This initiative is part of Rwanda's broader efforts to improve the health and well-being of its population, particularly focusing on pregnant mothers, lactating mothers, and children under the age of two. Finance Minister Klava Gaterte emphasized the importance of this project in combatting the irreversible effects of stunting, which is most prevalent among children under the age of five. Through extensive research and data analysis, the government identified 13 districts with high levels of stunting and severe food insecurity as priority areas for intervention. These districts, including Nabi Hu, Moro Reiro, Karo Ngih, Rubabu, Lucisi, Yamagabe, Uyay, Naru Guru, Ramagabe, Chiang, Kyanzaa, and Vijayasen, have an average stunting ratio of 43%, well above the national average. The goal is to reduce this ratio to 33% in the targeted districts and ultimately bring the national stunting rate down to 22% in the next seven years. Minister Gaterte highlighted the urgency of the situation and the need for swift action to prevent long-term health and economic consequences. In addition to the $55 million financing, Rwanda is also in discussions with other partners to secure an additional grant of $33 million for nutritional sensitive support in the identified districts. The government is determined to make significant progress within the next two years to ensure a healthier future for its citizens. The World Bank's Country Manager, Yassil El-Gomar, praised Rwanda's commitment to addressing malnutrition and expressed confidence in the government's ability to lead by example and inspire other nations. The partnership between Rwanda and the World Bank underscores a collaborative effort to prioritize the well-being of children and secure a brighter future for generations to come.