MCSP Malawi EX3 Success Story

The initiative was implemented in district hospitals and achieved significant improvements in breastfeeding practices, including a 68% increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates from 4% in 1992 to 72% in 2010. Initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth also increased from 69.8% in 2004 to 94.5% in 2010. However, the initiative declined due to the HIV epidemic and reduced support for BFHI. The standards of breastfeeding practices also declined, with a reduction in exclusive breastfeeding rates from 71% in 2010 to 62% in 2015. Despite this setback, the success of BFHI did not go unnoticed, and the Ministry of Health (MOH) collaborated with MCSP to revitalize the initiative in all 29 districts. MCSP worked with the MOH to orient District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) and identify task forces among trained staff. The task forces conducted self-assessments to identify gaps in the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. The districts then developed their own district plans and committed to encouraging staff to improve practices and engaging the community to popularize the hospital's services. The BFHI strategy focuses on linking discharged mothers to community volunteers who provide support with breastfeeding for six months. In Dowa district, MCSP trained 1,398 volunteers on how to support mothers with breastfeeding, family planning, and immunization service delivery best practices. Trained volunteers create ownership of the program and serve as a resource for communities to learn new skills and knowledge. Trained volunteers, such as Lyness Zambezi, have reported significant improvements in their knowledge and skills. Lyness, a volunteer from Mponela in Dowa, stated that the orientation was an eye-opener and enabled her to assist mothers with correct positioning and attachment. She has counselled 41 mothers, including six first-time mothers, and expressed gratitude to MCSP for the orientation. MCSP will continue to invest in volunteers like Lyness, who are leading by example and promoting healthy communities. The revitalization of BFHI has led to significant improvements in breastfeeding practices in Malawi. The initiative has also created a network of trained volunteers who provide support and guidance to mothers. The BFHI strategy has been successful in promoting exclusive breastfeeding rates and improving the health and well-being of mothers and their families.