Yvonne's Success Story in the Maternal Nutrition Program!
Meet Yvonne Nyirahabineza, a mother of a 6-year-old attending grade 1 and one more on the way. She is a farmer and lives in Burera District, where she graduated from the Maternal & Nutrition Program in December 2023. Her favorite vegetables are spinach and amaranth.
When asked about her most memorable lesson during the program, Yvonne shared that she realized the importance of vegetables during pregnancy and has since incorporated them into her daily meals.
“Before the program, I wasn’t used to planting vegetables. I learned that vegetables are good for my bones, and now I can’t live without them.” Yvonne says.
Yvonne also shared that she did not have a proper kitchen garden and wasn’t familiar with many other varieties. She shares that during seed distribution, it was the first time she discovered spinach. She picked them out of curiosity. “When I planted the first one at home, I even started eating some before they grew. They are very delicious!” Yvonne shares.
When sharing how differently she has noticed her health becoming, Yvonne says, “I used to cook beans and potatoes every day, and we thought it was all we needed.”But after the program, I know we need to have 4 colors on our plate to live healthy. Today, I add oil, tomatoes, and amaranth to the meals, and my family enjoys it.” she adds.
When asked if anything was unexpected during the program, Yvonne shared that involving their partners was a great addition to the family dynamics. “Our husbands learned how to cook in the men’s engagement, and it has been helpful, especially now that I am pregnant.” She says. Yvonne also shares that under the health curriculum, they learned how to filter drinking water for the first time.
When asked how her life has changed since her enrollment, Yvonne shares that she has noticed a change in her husband’s behavior towards her.
“During the training, he recognized the importance of taking care of me. For my first pregnancy, my husband did not care for me as much as he does now. He doesn’t allow me to lift heavy things or overwork. He even washes the clothes for me and my children.” Yvonne recounts. “A lot has changed!” She adds smilingly.