Isabelle Kamariza‘s crusade against nutrition insecurity began with a chance encounter. During her studies in Belgium, she witnessed food insecurity firsthand, but a visit to Kigali’s largest public hospital truly inspired her. There, she met Mama Zouzou, who selflessly fed one patient daily. This selfless act sparked something within her; she knew she had to act.
Nutrition Insecurity In Rwanda
Rwanda, Kamariza’s home country, faces alarming rates of nutrition insecurity, with close to 800,000 children under five suffering from stunting and 20.6% of the population struggling with food insecurity. In response, she launched Solid’Africa in 2010, taking a holistic approach that addresses the complex, interconnected causes of nutrition insecurity.
Through partnerships with 4,500 smallholder farmers and an industrial kitchen, Solid’Africa produces 13,000 nutritious meals daily. This efficiency enables the organisation to provide three free meals to 1,500 vulnerable patients in public hospitals, where nutrition is critical to health outcomes. Medically tailored meals have led to a 37% decrease in hospital stays.
Its impact goes beyond hospitals. It empowers students through nutrition education at school, improves academic performance, and fosters healthier communities. Iron deficiency anaemia affects 300 million schoolchildren in low—and middle-income countries, reducing their IQ by six points. Solid’Africa helps create a brighter future for Rwanda’s youth by addressing this issue.
The organisation has achieved remarkable growth and expansion through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts. Notably, collaborations with the government, Imbuto Foundation, and King Mohammed VI Foundation have enabled the organisation to expand its reach, supporting local economies and fostering food security by producing over 10,000 meals daily. This synergy has been instrumental in driving transformative change.
Building on its momentum and commitment to innovation, Solid’Africa is poised to embark on its next major milestone: the Institute of Culinary Arts and Nutrition (ICAN) launch in January 2025. This groundbreaking initiative will equip hospitality graduates with nutrition knowledge, driving transformation within the industry and furthering its mission to redefine Rwanda’s nutrition landscape
Isabelle Kamariza has transformed countless lives by providing nutritious meals, creating jobs, and empowering smallholder farmers. Over 7 million healthy meals have been served to 600,000 patients, and 211 jobs have been created, with 52% of employees being women.
Her vision is about redefining Rwanda’s nutrition landscape. Her leadership has earned recognition, including awards for innovation and social entrepreneurship. Her story inspires aspiring social entrepreneurs and change-makers.
Her company’s holistic approach has garnered recognition from Rwanda’s Ministry of Health. The organisation’s agricultural initiatives empower smallholder farmers through training and resources, enhancing crop yields and income. Through it, Kamariza has created a lasting legacy, transforming lives and shaping Rwanda’s nutrition landscape.
As Isabelle Kamariza looks to the future, plans are underway to expand Solid’Africa’s reach, partnering with more hospitals, schools, and communities.
