Farmers working on their land

In the rural village of Nkonko, Alphonsine Ngalula Kayembe balances farming and soap-making while raising five children with her husband. With support from a WFP-backed programme, she received training in improved farming techniques and soap production, helping the couple increase both harvests and income.

Her husband, Félicien, once struggled to earn enough as a welder. Now, they work together producing Moussa soap—Alphonsine leads on production while Félicien supports with measuring and cutting. The soap business has brought greater stability and allowed them to send their children to school.

For the couple, the business is more than income—it's a partnership. “When she works, it lightens the burden for both of us,” Félicien says. Their story shows how shared opportunities can transform family life and create a path to a better future.

“My name is Kakule Kiberiti Gilbert, and I am one of the agronomy supervisors for APETAMAKO, a WFP partner in Tanganyika,” he begins, speaking with conviction about the work that shapes his days. His role is not just about growing food—it’s about sowing seeds of empowerment and self-reliance in the next generation.

Gilbert explains the vision behind introducing children to school gardens. “The goal is to teach them self-sufficiency. While WFP provides cereals, legumes, oil, and salt, it is also important to supplement these meals with fresh vegetables,” he says. By cultivating their own produce, students learn practical skills that enhance their school meals and their understanding of food systems. This initiative is about more than just nutrition. “One of the objectives of having community fields in schools is to remind everyone of their responsibility,” Gilbert says.

His words resonate with a simple yet powerful truth: feeding a child is a shared responsibility—one that unites students, parents, and communities in the pursuit of a better future.

“My name is Mbuyi Kyongwe Generose. I support the school feeding programme,” she begins, her voice steady with pride. As a parent and community member, Generose is deeply involved in ensuring that children in her village not only have access to education but also the nourishment to thrive.

This year, Generose and her community are growing onions, matembela, and amaranths—essential vegetables that enrich the children's diets. “We plant the seeds, and when they grow, they feed the schoolchildren. We mix the split peas with vegetables when we cook for the children to vary their diet.”

“With food provided at school, children stay in class. They don’t skip lessons or wander off during school time,” she says. “The food benefits both parents and children—it gives the children strength to stay at school and takes away their worries about hunger.”

Her own children are part of this success story. “I have six children at this school,” she says proudly.

Generose's story is a testament to the power of community and resilience. Through her efforts, she not only nourishes young minds but also cultivates hope for a brighter future where education and nutrition go hand in hand.