In eastern Congo, the United Methodist Church is reinforcing its dedication to maternal and child health by promoting breastfeeding. This initiative coincided with World Breastfeeding Week, held from August 1-8, organized by the World Health Organization.
During information sessions, participants learned about the health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and how it helps prevent diseases in children. The church emphasized the community’s role in supporting breastfeeding mothers, stressing the need to reduce their workloads to facilitate proper breastfeeding.
UNICEF reports that only five out of ten infants under six months in Congo are exclusively breastfed.
The church’s Maternal, Newborn and Child Health program, supported by the Global Health program of the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries, has launched awareness activities across various towns in eastern Congo, including Kindu, Goma, Kisangani, and Tunda. These efforts included prenatal consultations and educational sessions for health staff, who in turn raised awareness about breastfeeding among service providers, community health workers, and expectant mothers.
Dr. Marie-Claire Manafundu, the program coordinator, highlighted the initiative’s importance. “We organized these activities to raise awareness and motivate mothers about the significance of breastfeeding, extending beyond just exclusive breastfeeding,” she said.
Manafundu noted that the breastfeeding practices in the country are critically low, which could lead to a rise in health issues. Demonstrations for first-time mothers and experienced breastfeeding women were part of the campaign.
“We also distributed key messages and support for breastfeeding to community health workers,” she explained, referring to the United Methodist health staff involved in local outreach.
The campaign included testimonials from mothers discussing the challenges and rewards of breastfeeding. At a session at the Centre Hospitalier Méthodiste Lokole, Marie Ketoka, a 35-year-old mother of three, shared her journey. “I’ve breastfed all my children, and each experience was different. I learned to listen to my body and my baby. Breastfeeding made me feel strong and connected. It’s a precious gift from nature.”
Aïcha Utchinga, a 28-year-old mother of a seven-month-old, found the information helpful in overcoming initial breastfeeding challenges. “At first, it was tough due to my busy schedule. Each time I exclusively breastfeed, I feel a unique bond with my baby, knowing I’m giving him the best start.”
Sylvie Lotchumba, a 24-year-old with a two-week-old infant, reflected on her positive experience. “As a young mother, breastfeeding has been amazing. I had doubts at first, but with medical staff’s guidance and other mothers’ support, I gained confidence. Now, I know it’s the best choice for both of us.”
East Congo Bishop Gabriel Yemba Unda praised the initiative and expressed his support. “I am pleased with our United Methodist brothers and sisters’ commitment to maternal and child health. Breastfeeding is a gift from God, and we must support women in this essential practice for children’s well-being.”
Manafundu concluded by reaffirming the church’s commitment to maternal and child health. “By raising awareness and supporting breastfeeding, United Methodists are fostering a society where every child has the best chance to grow up healthy.”
You Might Be Interested In
