Nursery students at Mutunda EAR Primary School in Mbazi Sector, Huye District, are benefiting from better nutrition and improved classroom performance thanks to a new initiative by the Anglican Church of Rwanda (EAR in French acronym) that provides each child with eggs three days per week.
The program, launched earlier this term, aims to strengthen Early Childhood Development (ECD) and improve the overall health and well-being of young students at Mutunda EAR Primary School.
Head teacher Mutangana Moise said the idea came after staff noticed that many children arrived at school without eating breakfast.
“We realized that some learners were coming to school hungry, and this affected their attention and participation in class,” Mutangana said. “With this program, children are more energetic and willing to learn.”
Under the new arrangement, students receive eggs on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to ensure they begin the day with nutritious food that supports brain development and growth.
Anglican Church representatives highlighted that the initiative reflects their mission of supporting families and promoting community welfare.
“Investing in children’s nutrition is investing in the country’s future,” said a representative for the Protestant Church. “When learners are healthy, they have a better chance to perform well academically and grow into responsible citizens.”
Teachers have already noticed encouraging improvements.
Teacher Fortune Mukamana shared: “The children are more active in lessons. They sing, count, and draw with excitement, something we rarely saw before the program.”
Her colleague Marie Uwizeyimana added that attendance has also improved. “Parents feel reassured that their children are well taken care of,” she said.
Parents such as Pauline Nyinawumuntu and Baziyaka Marie Chantal expressed deep gratitude.
“Sometimes it is hard to provide breakfast every day,” Nyinawumuntu said. “This support gives us relief and motivates us to take our children to school.”
Executive Secretary of Mbazi Sector, Clémance Uwimabera noted that the effort directly contributes to national goals of reducing malnutrition.
“Malnutrition remains a challenge in some households,” Uwimabera said. “Programs like this help children develop stronger bodies and sharper minds, which improves their learning outcomes.”
The Protestant Church intends to continue the egg program throughout the school year and may expand it to include porridge, fruits, or milk if resources allow.
School officials believe that ongoing collaboration among the church, parents, and local authorities will help learners build a strong foundation for lifelong success.
Author: Abayisenga Tumukunde Marie Fideline