DR Congo: World Breastfeeding Week: Women of Luiza Commit to Exclusive Breastfeeding
“Prioritise breastfeeding and create sustainable systems” was the theme that brought together hundreds of women from the Luiza health zone on Sunday, 7 September 2025, at the Tutante Health Centre in Kasaï Central Province. The event formed part of World Breastfeeding Week (WBW), a global initiative aimed at reminding communities of the vital importance of breast milk for child survival and development.
Strong Community Mobilisation
The gathering, organised by the National Nutrition Programme (PRONANUT) with support from World Vision, was made possible through funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) via the World Food Programme (WFP). Women from several villages and neighbourhoods across Luiza’s health zone attended the event.
At the heart of this mobilisation was a powerful reminder: breast milk is the first and best food for infants up to six months of age, before the gradual introduction of complementary foods.
Breast milk: a Vital and Accessible Treasure
During his presentation, Richards Mbuyi, nutritionist for the KOICA project, emphasised the multiple benefits of exclusive breastfeeding:
“Breast milk, low-cost and naturally adapted, remains the most complete and safest food for infants. The support of the entire community for breastfeeding mothers is an essential source of motivation and strengthens their commitment.”
Participants were also reminded of the benefits for mothers: a reduced risk of anaemia and certain chronic diseases, as well as the strengthening of the emotional bond with their child.
Awareness-raising, Demonstrations and Encouragement
Beyond technical presentations, the day featured practical demonstrations on correct breastfeeding positions, along with short theatrical sketches inspired by everyday family life. These performances helped to convey messages in an accessible way, including to women with limited access to formal education.
As a gesture of encouragement, mothers who had practised exclusive breastfeeding received insecticide-treated mosquito nets for their babies and water containers for safe storage.
Among them, Naomi Sakaji, visibly delighted, shared her testimony:
“The mosquito net will protect my baby from malaria, and the water container will help us store safe water. I encourage my peers to follow this example, and I thank the partners, especially KOICA, WFP and World Vision, for this valuable support.”
An Investment to Save Lives
This celebration formed part of broader efforts to fight chronic malnutrition and infant mortality, which continue to weigh heavily on the DRC, particularly in Kasaï Central. According to PRONANUT data, in some rural areas, nearly one in two children suffers from chronic malnutrition.
For World Vision and its partners, each awareness-raising activity contributes to building strong and sustainable community support systems.
“Investing in breastfeeding is investing in the future of a healthy generation, one that can learn better and contribute fully to the development of the country,” concluded Richard Mbuyi.