A special nutrition champion in Myanmar

U Maw, his wife Daw Tin and their three children live in Let Pan Tan village in Myanmar, where U Maw farms winter crops on nine acres of land that he owns. He is well-respected and engaged in their community, and he is often asked to serve on village committees for social and economic development and community governance.

U Maw wants to see all of the children and adults in his community healthy and well-nourished. Not surprisingly, he has been a great support in encouraging his friends and neighbors to engage in CWS-led nutrition activities in the village. He knows that having nutritious food, drinking safe water, using a sanitary latrine and having other hygienic habits will help make this goal a reality.

Speaking to CWS staff recently, U Maw said, “Most villagers here have limited knowledge about health and nutrition. They do not know exactly how to prepare and share nutritious food for children at different ages, especially very young children.  So, it is good that CWS has given mothers and caretakers some opportunities to learn more about nutrition, hygiene and sanitation, which are very useful for them to take proper care of their children so they grow up healthy and happy. This is very important because today’s children are future leaders of our village.”

U Maw also said that, at first, most mothers were not enthusiastic to join the project’s information sessions. But now, after a lot of CWS outreach, they better realize the importance of good nutrition and proper hygiene for their children’s futures, and they are more and more eager to participate in project activities – even though they are busy with their daily household work. Knowing the importance of having support from influential community members – especially men, since these topics are often regarded as “women’s work” alone – the CWS team is especially grateful for U Maw’s engagement and encouragement.