BGN Nabire implements two days without rice in MBG to absorb local produce

From field dialogues, many local agricultural commodities are unsold and left to rot. This is what concerns us. Nabire (ANTARA) - The National Nutrition Agency (Badan Gizi Nasional, BGN) Nabire Regency regional office, Central Papua, has implemented a two-day rice-free programme in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) to boost the absorption of local produce and stimulate the local economy. Regional Coordinator of BGN Nabire Regency Marsel Asyerem in Nabire, on Tuesday, said the policy is a response to the condition of Papuan mamas who often incur losses because their products are not absorbed by the market. “From field dialogues, many local agricultural commodities are not sold and rot. This is what concerns us,” he said. He explained the strategy was applied after they directly reviewed trading activity at Pasar Sore Tapiyoka, Nabire Kota District, while listening to Papuan mamas as vegetable sellers. “As a result, they do not have remaining income to meet household basic needs,” he said. He said the programme, which previously applied one day without rice, has now been increased to two days without rice and has been running for two months. “All MBG kitchens are required to buy and absorb produce from local traders so that their products are not wasted,” he said. He hopes the measure will not only strengthen local-based food security but also have a direct impact on improving the welfare of Papuan mamas as small economic actors. “We hope this programme truly brings tangible benefits to the community,” he said.