World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) 2026 was launched on 25 August in Rusayo, in Nyiragongo Territory, on the western outskirts of the city of Goma. The event is organized by the North Kivu Provincial Health Division (DPS).

Under the theme ‘Breastfeeding: a springboard for life – supporting and strengthening what works’, the campaign aims to strengthen initiatives promoting breastfeeding and to inform mothers and families about issues relating to infant health and nutrition.

The topics covered during the campaign focus in particular on exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life. According to health professionals, breast milk provides infants with the nutrients and water necessary for their growth and development. During this period, it is generally not necessary to give additional water, even during periods of extreme heat, unless medically advised.

Healthcare professionals also point out that breastfeeding can help with birth spacing when the conditions for the lactation amenorrhea method (LAM) are met. They further state that breastfeeding is recommended until the age of two or beyond, alongside an appropriate diet from six months onwards.

The issue of using breast milk to treat certain eye conditions in infants was also discussed. Although breast milk naturally contains certain components with protective and antimicrobial properties, its use to treat eye problems is not a substitute for medical care.

In the event of persistent redness, discharge, swelling or other eye symptoms in an infant, healthcare professionals recommend seeking medical advice rather than applying breast milk to the eyes without medical guidance.

It should be noted that breastfeeding women in Goma face constraints related to their daily activities. In particular, some have to balance breastfeeding with livelihood activities, notably working with a brush cutter and spending long hours selling goods. These constraints can make it more difficult to continue breastfeeding and raise the question of how to support breastfeeding mothers in their professional and economic activities.

Written by Victoire Katembo Mbuto

Photo caption: Women taking part in a breastfeeding training course in Rusayo, in the Nyiragongo territory. Photos by Silva Kanduki