Lumbini Province, home to the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha and a diverse population of over 5 million people, continues to face persistent challenges in child and maternal nutrition. According to recent reports, nearly 25% of children under five years suffer from stunting, while 16% experience wasting, indicating serious forms of malnutrition. Additionally, 44% of women aged 15 to 49 are reported to be anemic, posing significant health risks during pregnancy and early childhood.
To address this critical issue, Sewa Foundation Nepal (SFN), in partnership with Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City and with the generous support of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Delhi, launched a targeted Nutritive Food Distribution Program. The initiative focused on improving the nutritional status of severely malnourished children and vulnerable mothers in selected wards of Tulsipur Municipality, Dang District.
The program was carefully designed to provide Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) to 153 malnourished children, aged 6 months to 2 years, over a 21-day period. These children were identified by SFN staff, local health personnel, and Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The program also engaged pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, whose nutrition directly influences child development.
In addition to food distribution, SFN conducted community-based awareness sessions to educate families on essential topics such as handwashing, breastfeeding practices, and the importance of balanced diets. Parents were encouraged to incorporate locally available nutritious foods, including green vegetables, eggs, ghee, rice, beans, and meat, into their daily meals. Families were also advised to seek regular health check-ups from nearby health centers.
The program was implemented across five major locations—Fulbari, Tarigau, Urahari, Haripaura, and Kachila health centers—ensuring inclusive reach across four selected wards of Tulsipur. Each child received a sufficient quantity of RUTF, and every distribution was monitored for accuracy and effectiveness. The progress of the program was regularly shared with the Embassy of Azerbaijan, including photographic evidence and detailed reports to verify the distribution and its impact.
Despite the success, the program encountered a few challenges. Geographic and infrastructure barriers delayed food delivery in remote areas, and cultural food habits occasionally limited acceptance of RUTF. Additionally, funding constraints restricted the program’s expansion beyond the initial targeted wards.
However, the positive impact is already visible. Children who participated in the program showed notable improvements in health, energy, and weight gain. The initiative has not only addressed immediate nutritional deficiencies but also laid the groundwork for long-term change by raising awareness among families and communities.
Sewa Foundation Nepal believes that nutritional programs like these are essential for sustainable development. The organization plans to advocate for continued support from local governments and explore new partnerships with national and international donors. Expanding such programs throughout Lumbini Province, particularly in underserved and rural areas, will be key to reducing childhood malnutrition and ensuring a healthier future for all.
This program contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).