Written by Antony Peter, Health and Nutrition Technical Specialist, World Vision Canada
Over 700 million people faced hunger in 2023, equivalent to one in eleven people globally and one in five in Africa. Projections show that global nutrition targets for 2030 will only be met if the current trend of child malnutrition is reversed.
Breastfeeding mothers and their babies are among the most vulnerable during the hunger crisis. While breastfeeding is a critical aspect of child nutrition under normal circumstances, supporting breastfeeding during the hunger crisis is even more crucial. Breast milk is an ideal source of nutrition for babies, especially during the first six months of life, as it contains all the necessary nutrients and antibodies to support the baby's growth. As a result, protecting and promoting safe and appropriate infant and young child feeding practices is essential for preventing hunger and malnutrition, particularly in fragile and emergency contexts.
However, breastfeeding can be demanding on the mother, both physically and emotionally, as babies may need to nurse frequently. Taking care of breastfeeding and lactating mothers’ nutrition, hydration, and well-being is essential to supporting a healthy breastfeeding experience for themselves and their babies.
A common myth is that mothers are unable to breastfeed during the hunger crisis. However, malnourished mothers are still able to breastfeed their children. Breastfeeding burns extra calories in the mother’s body, resulting in increased appetite and feelings of hunger. Mothers must be supported with adequate food and nutrition to provide babies with the necessary nutrition.
From 2022 to 2024, World Vision implemented the Hunger Crisis Response in Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, to support young children’s feeding and breastfeeding mothers. The focus was on optimal breastfeeding for children under two and pregnant and lactating mothers through establishing Mother-to-Mother Support Groups.
In Ethiopia, the project reached over 215,000 participants and focused on enhancing nutrition for children under five and pregnant and lactating women. During visits to health institutions and public gatherings, mothers received training on feeding practices, such as breastfeeding.
The project provided a special nutrition package in Somalia and South Sudan, including Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food and Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food. Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition activities included community and individual counselling on infant feeding and appropriate care practices. Over 58,000 individuals were treated for moderate and severe acute malnutrition. Overall, in Somalia, over one million participants were supported.
Additionally, in South Sudan, nutrition workers and members of mother support groups conducted personalized counselling sessions at health facilities. Community awareness sessions were conducted to educate and provide breastfeeding support, emphasizing its importance and ways to improve it. Over 385,000 participants were reached in South Sudan.
In South Sudan, as part of the Hunger Crisis Response project, mothers were supported and trained in infant feeding and nutrition practices.
In Yemen, training was provided for Community Health Volunteers and Health Workers, including midwives and nurses, on proper infant and young child feeding practices and exclusive breastfeeding to support over 19,000 participants.
In Syria, the project screened and treated malnutrition. Training on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies was conducted, and messages promoting good nutrition were delivered. Nutrition-sensitive cash assistance to support treatment programs was distributed, and hygiene kits were provided to improve living conditions. Over 254,000 participants were supported.
Fighting the myths around breastfeeding during the hunger crisis, ensuring adequate support to breastfeeding mothers, including emotional and psychosocial support and training breastfeeding mothers with the appropriate breastfeeding skills is essential. Breast milk contains all the vital nutrients the baby needs for optimum growth and development.
World Vision Canada is committed to extending our support toward the Hunger Crisis response and enhancing the quality of life for children by promoting breastfeeding and supporting other infant and young child feeding practices.