by Safidy Randrianirina 

Too many children in Madagascar face stunting, wasting, and chronic malnutrition. Nearly 45% are stunted before their fifth birthday, a silent emergency with lifelong consequences. Yet even in the face of these challenges, hope continues to grow.

Founded in 2017, Reny sy Zaza Tomady, which means “Healthy and Strong Mothers and Children,” has long represented hope for families. It became officially certified in 2025 and operates in partnership with government institutions.

That’s why I’m so grateful to the Bountiful Children’s Foundation, which opened the door for me to be part of something greater. An organization that is truly changing lives. Bountiful Children works across the globe to fight childhood malnutrition, and in Madagascar, it is giving children not just food and care, but dignity, love and hope.

When Support Meets Determination, Children Grow

My name is Safidy. As a communication lead with the Foundation, my mission is to share these children's stories and connect with people who want to make a difference. And outreach finding people who are willing to support these children, helping others see and feel the urgent needs of these young ones face every day.

Children and caregivers at screening in Ivandry, Antananarivo, Madagascar.

This Is Why We Continue: A Baby’s Path Back to Health

During one visit, we met a mother whose nine-month-old baby weighed only 5 kg; despite long days washing clothes for other families, she continued making the effort to attend our sessions because she knew we were there to support her. Three months later, her baby has gained 2 kilograms, and seeing her smile again reminds us why this work matters. Many other children in our program are also showing steady improvement in their growth and overall wellbeing. These simple, transparent results reflect our commitment to real progress and to building strong trust with the communities and donors who stand with us.

Children in the Ambohitrarahaba Program.

Many mothers in our communities make extraordinary sacrifices to ensure their children are fed and clothed, even while living in deep poverty. Madagascar remains one of the least developed countries in the world, and nearly 75.2% of the population does not have access to basic living conditions. Most of the mothers we serve do not have stable employment; many earn a small income by washing clothes for families who are too busy to manage their own household tasks. Despite these difficult circumstances, they continue to attend our sessions because they want a healthier future for their children. This is the reality faced by most of the mothers participating in BCF Madagascar’s programs.

Mothers with their children in Madagascar.

Hope in Action

Reny sy Zaza Tomady continues to strengthen child nutrition in Madagascar by reaching families where the needs are greatest. This year, our team screened more than 130 children for malnutrition, helping us identify those most at risk. Among them, over 115 children received nutritional supplements and regular follow-up support.

Program recipients in Madagascar washing hands and getting height measured.

Children in Ivandry area getting weighed and holding supplements.

Vegetables growing in garden beds.

Nary and David planting seeds in a garden bed.

“Because of You, Their Smile Returned.”

Thank you.