Malnutrition is a significant challenge in many developing countries, especially as rural-urban migration increases the number of urban poor. These individuals often struggle with food insecurity, which significantly contributes to malnutrition. The impact on children is especially severe, hindering growth and development and, in some cases, threatening survival.

Take the story of Victory, a young toddler who struggled with malnutrition. Her mother, a teenager and first-time parent, had limited knowledge about proper child care practices. Victory showed clear signs of malnutrition, including visible bones, irritability, and discolored hair and skin. These alarming symptoms prompted a referral from Odumbaku Primary Health Center to the Lagos Food Bank.

Upon assessment, Victory was found to be severely malnourished, with a MUAC of 10 cm and a weight of only 6 kg at 1 year and 8 months. After enrollment into the NUMEPLAN programme, Victory began to receive nutritious food items and her mother was equipped with knowledge on child care and feeding practices. Her mother’s commitment to improving Victory’s health played a crucial role in the recovery process.

After two months of support from the Lagos Food Bank, Victory made a remarkable recovery, weighing 9 kg and with a MUAC of 13.7 cm. Her transformation is a powerful reminder that, with proper intervention and support, even the most vulnerable children can overcome malnutrition and grow into healthy, thriving individuals.