HFDI Promotes Child Survival Through Exclusive Breastfeeding Sensitization in Onna LGA
Hope for Family Development Initiative, HFDI has conducted an Infant and Young Child Feeding, IYCF, sensitization session in Mkpok, Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state, to improve child survival, maternal wellbeing, and optimal nutrition practices at the community level.
The session targeted breastfeeding mothers, caregivers, and pregnant women.
The Facilitators educated participants on Exclusive Breastfeeding, EBF, where the importance of initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and feeding only breast milk for the first 6 months, with no water, herbs, pap, formula, or other liquids was emphasised.
Also the benefits of breast milk for Babies to provide complete nutrition, strengthens immunity, protects against infections and malnutrition, and supports healthy growth and cognitive development was maintained, while mothers were described to have faster recovery after childbirth, reduced postpartum bleeding, stronger mother-child bonding, and lower risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
As Practical Guidance, the dangers of mixed feeding, common breastfeeding challenges, and strategies for effective breastfeeding management was explained to the participants.
The facilitator speaking on complementary Feeding, said that timely introduction of appropriate complementary foods after 6 months while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond is advised.
To support maternal health, micronutrient supplements were distributed to all the pregnant women in attendance.
The session recorded active participation, with mothers and caregivers sharing experiences, asking questions, and discussing cultural practices linked to mixed feeding. Many participants acknowledged past misconceptions and expressed willingness to adopt recommended EBF practices.
The activity according to HFDI Team achieved increased awareness on EBF, improved knowledge of health and nutritional benefits, strengthened commitment among mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, and enhanced community support for maternal and child nutrition interventions.
The session promoted positive infant feeding practices, while reinforcing the importance of sustained community engagement and health education in reducing malnutrition, illness, and preventable child mortality.
HFDI as an organization reaffirmed its commitment to scaling up IYCF education across Akwa Ibom to ensure every child gets the best start in life.