Moringa's Promise

In the Mesqan region, high in Ethiopia’s rugged terrain, a nutritional revolution is unfolding. The Hunger Project is championing the introduction of Moringa, the ‘miracle tree’, which promises a wealth of nutritional benefits. This initiative is especially significant for pregnant women, new mothers, and children.

Sisters Nuria and Zebiba Ahmed, find themselves amidst this wave of change. As Nuria awaits the birth of her first child, she is embraced by the comforting tradition of staying with her mother. A short distance away, Zebiba nurtures her one-year-old.

Their introduction to Moringa was during a cooking demonstration at the epicentre. The sisters learned of its immense nutritional value, and were advised about the benefits of maintaining a balanced diet. They saw firsthand the Moringa tree at the epicentre’s plantation and were given seedlings of their own.

For both sisters, the emphasis on nutrition is paramount. Nuria shared, “During my pregnancy, I’ve been keen on maintaining a balanced diet, as advised by THP’s health program. I’ve increased my intake of fruits, vegetables, milk, and eggs.” Zebiba adds, “I also learned about the importance of breastfeeding for the first six months.”

With much anticipation, Zebiba revealed, “We’ll soon plant our Moringa seedling. Within six months, we can begin harvesting its leaves and introduce Moringa dishes to my child’s diet.” With a Moringa tree, she can now ensure her family’s nutrition, even when finances are tight.

The Hunger Project’s initiative has distributed thousands of Moringa seedlings in the Mesqan region, transforming the nutritional landscape and the lives of women like Zebiba and Nuria.