DR Congo: Support During Pregnancy Saves Children’s Lives
In Maluku, a commune in Kinshasa, maternal and child health challenges remain a serious concern. Many women go through pregnancy without proper support, exposing their babies to preventable risks. To address this, World Vision implemented a strategy of organized and targeted home visits, led by trained community volunteers who educate families on best practices in health and nutrition.
Miryam, a young mother living in Maluku, had experienced several pregnancies before receiving this support. She shared that although she stayed home and attended prenatal consultations, she didn’t always have the right knowledge to ensure her baby’s health.
“During my previous pregnancies, I did what I thought was right, but I didn’t have all the information. I didn’t really know how to properly feed my baby,” she admits.
Like many mothers in her community, Miryam was unaware of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding. This lack of knowledge exposed infants to common illnesses, including digestive and respiratory infections. According to local data, many children under six months in Maluku do not receive exclusive breastfeeding,increasing their vulnerability.
With support from World Vision, Miryam was identified by community volunteers and received home visits. These volunteers explained the best practices to follow during pregnancy and after childbirth, emphasizing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding.
“The community volunteers always talked to us about how to protect our pregnancy and how to feed our baby. They recommended giving only breast milk, nothing else,” Miryam recalls.
André Kimpinde, Health and Nutrition Specialist at World Vision, highlights the value of this approach:
“Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is one of the most effective ways to reduce infant mortality. Our community volunteers play a key role by delivering these messages directly to households, where decisions are made.”
Miryam applied the advice she received. She gave birth safely and chose exclusive breastfeeding for her baby, Ofranel, who is now three months old.
“Unlike my previous pregnancies, this time I gave birth safely and my baby is healthy. He hasn’t been sick since birth,” she says proudly.
Miryam’s story illustrates the tangible impact of targeted home visits. With consistent and tailored awareness, behaviors are changing, children are better protected, and mothers feel more confident.
“I sincerely thank World Vision for their support. Thanks to their advice, my baby is healthy. This program truly helps women like me experience motherhood in a better way,” she concludes.