Midwife Jemilatu Bangura not only teaches pregnant and lactating women about breastfeeding, she practices what she teaches. Holding her daughter, she describes how breastfeeding has helped this healthy, happy and active baby thrive through her first six months of life. Bangura and Nurse Jonathan (left) work with the Taiama Clinic in Sierra Leone. (Photo: Courtesy Sierra Leone UMC Health Board)

FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – In our communities, breastfeeding continues to play a vital role in improving maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH). In Sierra Leone, United Methodist health facilities have observed remarkable benefits resulting from increased awareness and practice of exclusive breastfeeding.

Pastors and Imams speak from the pulpit and in the mosque telling men that a father’s role is important too. If we support women, the children will grow strong. Our MNCH data shows a noticeable decline in malnutrition among infants under six months of age, which we attribute largely to increased exclusive breastfeeding rates.

A map of Kina, a cluster of villages in the North Katanga Episcopal Area, is used by community health workers to understand who and how many people reside in the area and determine who needs health care, obstetrics and nutritional help for children. (Photo: Global Health)

Through health education, peer support and community outreach, more families are embracing breastfeeding as both a natural practice and a lifesaving intervention.

Breastfed infants in our catchment communities are showing stronger growth, fewer cases of diarrhea and respiratory infections, and overall better immune responses compared to those who are partially or not breastfed.

Mothers who breastfeed exclusively often experience quicker recovery after childbirth. Our reports indicate reduced postpartum bleeding, faster uterine contraction, and emotional bonding that contributes to mental well-being are other benefits of breastfeeding. Mothers may find it useful as a means of family planning, and they engage regularly in clinic visits, health education sessions, and child welfare monitoring, reinforcing the continuum of care.

Mothers in the East Congo Episcopal Area of the DRC listen attentively in a new mother’s training class. (Photo: Courtesy Global Health)

We have seen a steady improvement in attendance and outcomes at our well-baby clinics. Mothers who breastfeed always bring their children for regular growth monitoring, immunizations and nutritional counseling. This has created a stronger connection between families and United Methodist health services, fostering trust and long-term participation in child health programs.

Catherine Norman is the Health Board Coordinator for United Methodist health facilities in the Sierra Leone Conference.

Global Health

Global Ministries provides a way to support United Methodist health facilities and the medical personnel who help to create sustainable support systems for women who choose to breastfeed their babies through the first six months of life.

In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, give to Abundant Health.

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