Title: Child malnutrition threatens the municipality of Lubero: a call to action
Introduction :
The rural commune of Lubero, located in the North Kivu region, faces a growing concern: malnutrition among children under five years old. Despite the fertility of the surrounding land and the agricultural potential of the region, 37 cases of malnutrition were recorded between last September and October. The most affected children come from poor families, faced with insecurity caused by armed groups and prohibitive land prices. This alarming situation requires urgent action to ensure the food security of children and their families.
Factors responsible for malnutrition:
According to Jean de Dieu Kakule, head nurse at the Mulo health center, several factors contribute to the prevalence of malnutrition in the commune of Lubero. First of all, the insecurity caused by armed groups prevents populations from freely accessing their fields and cultivating their land. This situation leaves families unable to meet the food needs of their children.
In addition, the concentration of land in the hands of the rich, due to anarchic subdivision, aggravates the situation. Poor families do not have access to arable land, making local food production difficult. As a result, many children find themselves undernourished and exposed to nutritional deficiencies.
Another contributing factor is also highlighted by Jean de Dieu Kakule: the habit of selling crops instead of preserving them. This practice deprives families of food reserves and exposes them to periods of shortage, thus increasing the risk of malnutrition.
The need for immediate action:
The prevalence of malnutrition among children under the age of five in the municipality of Lubero is alarming and calls for urgent action. Measures must be taken to guarantee the food security of families and the health of children.
First of all, it is essential to strengthen security in the region and end the influence of armed groups, in order to allow people to safely access their lands and cultivate their fields. It also requires investment in infrastructure and the implementation of protective measures for farmers.
Then, initiatives to support poor families must be put in place. This could include providing farmland to families in need, promoting sustainable agricultural techniques and providing access to quality seeds. Awareness programs on the importance of a balanced diet and responsible harvest management can also play a key role in combating malnutrition.
Finally, it is essential to strengthen local health systems and ensure adequate access to medical care and appropriate nutrition for children suffering from severe malnutrition. This requires training local medical staff, improving health infrastructure and providing nutritional supplements.
Conclusion :
Child malnutrition in the municipality of Lubero represents a major challenge for the health and well-being of children. The influence of armed groups, the concentration of land and the habits of selling crops are all factors that contribute to this worrying situation. It is imperative to implement concrete actions to improve the food security of families, strengthen health systems and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Only a global and coordinated approach will make it possible to effectively combat malnutrition and guarantee a healthier future for the children of Lubero.