“ENOUGH” When Faith Stands Against Malnutrition in Mozambique

By: Álvaro Malamba, Communication and Advocacy Coordinator 

Fully aware of their influence on community values and behaviour, religious leaders in Mozambique are taking on a new role: confronting child malnutrition. For them, the mission is not only about saving souls, it’s also about saving bodies, especially those of the youngest, who often fall victim to cultural practices that hinder healthy growth.

In a country where tradition continues to shape eating habits, beliefs such as forbidding children from eating eggs persist, despite medical guidance to the contrary. In response, spiritual leaders are putting their faith to work in the service of health.

With this conviction, they have joined the ENOUGH campaign, global call to action to end child hunger and malnutrition. The initiative aims to reach over two million children across Mozambique in the span of two years. Its goal is not only to improve nutrition, but also to dispel harmful myths and awaken public awareness.

In Guijá district, Gaza Province, Pastor Cecília Chauque is one of the voices rising with compassion and resolve.

“For years, we taught that children shouldn’t eat eggs. We were told it was harmful. But now we see it’s the opposite. Eggs save lives,” she explains. And with firm conviction, she adds: "The time has come to break the myths that are silently killing our children" 

Pastor Bernardo Fungate, also from the region, draws on Scripture to affirm that good nutrition is part of God’s design. Citing Genesis 1:29, he reminds:

“Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed… and every tree that bears fruit… they shall be yours for food.”

To him, malnutrition is not merely a health issue, it’s a denial of God’s intended plan for life. Pastor Cecília echoes this sentiment:

“How can we eat only leaves when we have herds of cattle that could help provide a more balanced diet for our children?”, she asks.

The message is clear. These leaders know the road ahead won’t be easy, but they believe that a well-nourished child represents a more dignified, just life, one that aligns with the vision God has for all.

And while pulpits once echoed only spiritual sermons, they now carry messages of transformation: against malnutrition, for life, for justice, and for love of neighbour.

Because now, as they all say with one voice: enough. 

Capitalising on its Christian identity, World Vision hosted a week-long mission with faith leaders to raise awareness about the new ENOUGH campaign and harness their influential power in shaping public opinion and social values.