At three years old, Akiti could not walk. She lived with her 76-year-old grandmother in the Talensi District, and the household rarely had enough food. Without good nutrition and care she was severely malnourished and often ill, like many young children in her village.
Akiti was identified by the Community Child Nutrition Committee formed under NABOCADO’s Food Security Project, which worked in six districts to improve child nutrition and protect children’s rights.
The project helped her family grow vegetables all year round in a solar-powered community garden, and trained caregivers in child nutrition. Her grandmother learned new ways of cooking nutritious meals from local foods.
“She was looking pale and malnourished. We spoke to her grandmother about how to take care of her and the type of food that could improve her situation. I can say that now she looks really good, and we’re proud of our achievements.”
Today Akiti is a healthy, lively girl who keeps up with her classmates at home and in school. Over 18 months, the project addressed more than 18 cases of malnutrition, giving children like her a better chance to grow and learn.
Part of the Food Security Project, funded by Kindermissionswerk ‘Die Sternsinger’, Germany.
Story and photos: Moses Apana Apobona, NABOCADO Media & Communications.