Nyabihu, 07^th August 2024 - As the world joins hands to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week under the theme, "Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All," Rwanda is taking proactive steps to ensure that every mother and child has access to the support they need for optimal breastfeeding practices.

In a significant move, the Rwandan government has launched a month-long campaign dedicated to promoting and enhancing breastfeeding practices across the nation.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, dispel myths, and address challenges that mothers face. By providing education and resources, the initiative seeks to bridge the gaps in breastfeeding support, ensuring that all mothers can provide the best start in life for their children.

The campaign's ultimate goal is to raise awareness and encourage parents and the community to adopt optimal breastfeeding practices, with a focus on initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding during complementary feeding until the child is at least 24 months old.

The launch event that took place in Nyabihu District on 7^th August 2024, was attended by  government officials, development partners, representatives from various NGOs and nearby residents, underscored the importance of breastfeeding for both maternal and child health.

From Left: Dusingizamana Lambert, The Governor of Western Province, Ingabire Assumpta, Director General of NCDA, Mukandayisenga Antoinette, the Mayor of Nyabihu District

Byiringiro Janviere, a mother of a six-month-old baby, credits the advice she received from community health workers and nurses during and after her pregnancy for her baby's healthy growth. She attributes this to exclusively breastfeeding her baby for the first six months, as recommended.

The Director General of National Child Development Agency, Ingabire Assumpta highlighted breastfeeding’s role in preventing stunting among the children, urging support for it. She stressed the importance of breastfeeding within one hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months as key drivers of optimal breastfeeding. 

Throughout the month, the campaign will feature a series of activities aimed at educating the public, empowering healthcare providers, and supporting breastfeeding mothers. These activities include community outreach programs, workshops for healthcare workers, and media campaigns designed to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding.

As Rwanda launches this vital breastfeeding campaign, the nation reaffirms its commitment to giving every child the best start in life. Breastfeeding is not just a choice but a cornerstone of a healthy future.