DR Congo: World Vision Marked Breastfeeding Week in Maluku

To mark World Breastfeeding Week, World Vision organised a series of awareness-raising activities in its Maluku development programme, in partnership with local health authorities and the National Nutrition Programme (PRONANUT).

The aim was clear: to remind families that exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is essential for a child’s health, and that it should continue up to two years and beyond, alongside appropriate complementary feeding.

The Head of the Intervention Unit at PRONANUT, Mr Pépin, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration:

“Breastfeeding is a fundamental right of every child and a duty of protection for society. Thanks to this partnership with World Vision, we are strengthening awareness to save lives and build a healthy generation.”

These words highlight the importance of multisectoral commitment to child health.

For his part, Roger, a community facilitator in the Maluku health zone, shed light on local involvement:

“We mobilised community leaders, volunteers, and health facilities to relay the message. Breastfeeding is not just the mother’s responsibility, but a cause that engages the whole community.”

This testimony illustrates the collective mobilisation around this vital practice.

Meanwhile, André Kimpinde, Health and Nutrition Specialist at World Vision, underlined the concrete results achieved: “Breast milk contains all the nutrients necessary for optimal growth, protects against infections and strengthens the mother-child bond. As part of the ttC model project, we sensitised 701 mothers in Maluku: 658, or 94%, practised exclusive breastfeeding, enabling 654 infants to be fed only at the breast. In addition, 57 fathers became involved to support their wives. These results show that change is possible when the community is engaged.”

A statement that highlights the tangible impact of grassroots action.

Inspiring Testimonies

Beneficiaries themselves confirmed the importance of this campaign. Saidate, a young mother, shared her personal experience: 

“During my first pregnancy, I had not received any advice. I gave water and other foods to my baby before six months, and he often fell ill. But thanks to the visits from World Vision volunteers, I understood the importance of exclusive breastfeeding. For my second pregnancy, I followed their recommendations: my daughter is only three months old, but she is in perfect health and I no longer need to visit the hospital.”

A testimony that highlights the power of information and community support.

Miryam, a mother of several children, also recounted her journey: 

“During my previous pregnancies, I thought I was doing the right thing, but I did not have all the information. With the support of the volunteers, I learnt that only breast milk should be given for six months. Today, my baby Ofranel is in good health and I am more confident as a mother.”

Words that reflect a sustainable and beneficial change in behaviour.

A lasting Impact

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months remains one of the most effective interventions to reduce child mortality. The testimonies of Saidate and Miryam show that when mothers receive the right information and local support, the results are both visible and lasting. By celebrating World Breastfeeding Week, World Vision and its partners, including PRONANUT, reaffirm their commitment to promoting the health and well-being of children, supporting families and communities in adopting life-saving practices.