DR Congo: A Mother Discovers the Power of Breastfeeding
In the bustling neighborhoods of Maluku, in Kinshasa, Saidate, a young mother of two, still recalls with emotion her first experience of motherhood. At the time, she faced her doubts alone, without guidance or support to help her navigate this crucial stage of life.
“During my first pregnancy, I didn’t receive any advice. I didn’t know how a pregnant woman should behave. After giving birth, I gave my baby water, food, and even a bottle before he was six months old. He was often sick,” she recounts.
This situation, common among many families in the area, reflected a lack of access to information and preventive care. Despite their efforts, Saidate and her husband spent a lot of time at the hospital, worried about their child’s health.
Everything changed with the arrival of organised and targeted home visits, implemented by World Vision in partnership with trained community volunteers. During her second pregnancy, Saidate received visits from these volunteers, who provided personalized and practical advice tailored to her situation. André Kimpinde, Health and Nutrition Specialist at World Vision, explains:
“We introduced a proximity-based approach. Community volunteers identify pregnant and breastfeeding women and visit them at home. This helps build trust and makes health messages more effective.”
These visits proved to be a turning point for Saidate. She learned the importance of prenatal and postnatal consultations, and most importantly, the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months.
“This time, I followed the advice. I gave only breast milk to my daughter. She’s three months old now and in perfect health. I haven’t had to take her to the hospital,” she says proudly.
The change is visible. Thanks to the support she received, Saidate adopted better practices, ensuring improved health for her child. And she’s not alone; many mothers in her neighborhood report similar improvements.
“The impact is tangible. Children are healthier, families spend less on medical care, and mothers gain confidence. It’s a lasting transformation for the entire community,” emphasizes André Kimpinde.
Today, Saidate is a reassured mother, aware of the importance of information and community support:
“I see the difference. My baby is healthy, and I feel more at ease. What I learned through the home visits truly helped me. I sincerely thank World Vision for their support and for the follow-up they provide to pregnant and breastfeeding women. This support saves lives, and I’m a witness that it saved my daughter’s.”