Restoring Hope: How Ezekiel Helped a Child Overcome Malnutrition and Thrive with ART Support
The Story
In Bwongera Village of Chato District in Geita Region, Ezekiel Makungu Lushinge (46) serves as a Community Case Worker (CCW) for the USAID Kizazi Hodari (Brave Generation) Northeastern Zone project. He supports and provides comprehensive care services to 12 households of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) within a 300- meter radius. Among them was a family of two-and-a-half-year-old Jaspar Damson a HIV-positive child unable to walk or stand due to severe malnutrition and inconsistent ART (antiretroviral therapy) adherence. The parents and the two children in the household live with HIV.
Leveraging training on positive parenting, National Integration Case Management System (NICMS), Paediatric and Adolescent HIV and AIDS care, and Nutrition Assessment Counseling and Support (NACS) from the USAID Kizazi Hodari Northeastern Zone project, Ezekiel identified Jaspar’s critical condition during a routine visit. He counseled the caregiver on proper nutrition using affordable, locally available foods and emphasized strict ART adherence. He also coordinated with the project community support for food and clothes to the family while linking the family to the nearest health facility. Within weeks of support, linkage, and close monitoring of the household, the child’s health improved significantly. Jaspar regained strength, stood again, and began walking. transforming from a frail, malnourished state to a vibrant, hopeful future. The family’s recovery has since inspired the parents to protect their 3-month-old child whose Dry Blood Sample results were negative.
“I believe that every child deserves a chance to thrive,” Ezekiel shares. “Through the skills I’ve gained and the support of the USAID Kizazi Hodari Northeastern Zone project, I’ve been able to make a real difference in my community.” Ezekiel’s story showcases the power of localized training and resources in transforming lives, proving that with the right support, even the most vulnerable can thrive.