Ditwa Donations in Central Province

The Problem

Malnutrition remains a hidden crisis in the Central Province. Despite overall food production, many low-income families lack access to affordable protein sources. Ditwa (dried fish) – a traditional, protein-rich staple – has become too expensive for daily consumption. Children in rural schools often go without a proper meal, affecting their growth and learning.

Our Response

In partnership with the National Nutrition Council and local school principals, we launched the “Ditwa for All” initiative in February 2024:

• Monthly rations: 500 families receive a 5kg pack of quality dried fish, fortified with iron and calcium.
• School meal fortification: 30 schools incorporate ditwa into their midday meals, reaching 4,500 children.
• Community kitchens: Four village-based kitchens prepare nutritious meals using ditwa and locally grown vegetables, offering subsidized lunches to the elderly and unemployed.

Achievements to Date

• Distributed over 15,000 kg of ditwa across 12 divisional secretariats.
• Reduced signs of protein deficiency (measured via mid-upper arm circumference) by 22% among beneficiary children.
• Trained 50 community health volunteers to monitor nutrition status and report needs.
• Created 15 new part-time jobs in processing and packaging.

“The children are more energetic, and attendance has improved since we started adding ditwa to the school meal.” – Principal, Gamalanda Primary School

Sustainability

We are working with local fishermen to source sustainably caught fish and building a small-scale drying facility to reduce costs. The program aims to become self-financing within two years through a community-owned cooperative.

How You Can Help

Donations of any amount go directly toward purchasing fish and fortification supplements. Corporate sponsors are also welcome to support school feeding programs.