Local Organization Improves Mother and Child Health Internationally

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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Beatrice looks out over her garden. It’s a lush oasis, brimming with organic fruits and vegetables. As her eyes reach the perimeter of her small plot, the contrast between her garden and beyond is striking. Though Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills for its verdant landscape, the Kayonza district somehow misses out on the blessing of rain. Beatrice remembers when her small plot looked just like the surrounding countryside – tired and dry. She remembers when her family also struggled to live a decent life.

It was only a few short years ago, while at the health centre to receive her month’s supply of milk for her malnourished child, that Beatrice heard an announcement. ADRA was beginning a project called PROMISE to teach families how to improve the health of mothers and babies. Beatrice looked down at her undersized infant, then signed up to participate

The PROMISE project is funded by the Government of Canada and is a partnership between ADRA, Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, and Emmanuel International Canada. This project focuses on the health of mothers and children through nutrition, sanitation, and agricultural training.

Shy at first, Beatrice was eager nonetheless. It surprised her to learn that vegetables are important. She thought, like so many others, that vegetables were only for the poorest people. Her confidence grew as she mastered permaculture gardening, which requires less water than traditional gardening.

After receiving seeds, fruit trees, and tools from the project, Beatrice planted her oasis. Her family now feasts on organic produce all year round. Her once malnourished son is now a thriving, toddling boy.

For Beatrice, the discovery that there’s a connection between health and sanitation and hygiene was eye-opening. She and her husband decided to construct a proper latrine. They even set up a hand-washing station.

When her friends come to visit, they can’t help but see the difference in Beatrice’s life. Some have asked her to share her secrets, which she gladly does. The once timid woman is now leading training groups of her own in other village

“I am very happy and grateful to ADRA and the Government of Canada for coming to support and help us to improve our lives!” she beams.

ADRA Canada is an international humanitarian organization based in Newcastle, Ontario. ADRA responds to disasters and works with families in communities around the world to ensure safer, healthier, happier lives. 

For more information, visit promiseworthkeeping.ca or www.adra.ca.