UNICEF photography - Mark Lehn | Brisbane | Australia
Ruben is a 3 years old child, lives with his grandmother (Maria Angelina Jose- 72 years) and sister (Judite - 11 years) in the neighborhood of Manga. Ruben lost his mother after birth in 2008. With only 2 days old, his father gave Ruben the care of the grandmother (mother of the deceased mother). Up to 6 months of age, the infant was exclusively fed with porridge of maize flour. However, one of the visits by the father, he noted the deplorable state of child nutrition and, after consultation with the grandmother; Ruben was taken to Colegio Infantil. Ruben stayed in Colegio Infantil for one year and was regularly visited by his grandmother. Ruben is HIV negative, and did prophylaxis during the entire duration of his internship at Colegio Infantil.
Ruben's father no longer visits the family and there are rumors that he has remarried. He does not contribute financially or in kind. In 2010 took place Ruben family reintegration. The integration is a success.
Judite, sister of Ruben, attends the fifth grade. She is HIV positive and is under ARVs treatment. The grandmother is responsible for ensuring treatment (including collection and administration of medicines). Judite's father died during the pregnancy of the girl. Judite has no contact with the relatives of the deceased father.
The grandmother of Ruben dedicates to rice cultivation and sale of coal. She states that has managed to sustain the family, albeit with recurring difficulties. The family is also integrated in the food security programme implemented by WFP, in collaboration with Colegio Ingfantil. They were also listed to benefit from the Direct Support and assistance provided by DPMAS Sofala.