CHPF continues to unsertake its mandate in the protection for the mother and child in the community. In line with the community strategy from the ministry of health, our child protection department uses the Baby Friendly community Initiatives (BFCI) to protect, promote and support optimal maternal and infant and young child feeding practices and improve child survival.
On 22/05/2025 our Child Protection Officer Consolata Liseche conducted a BFCI session in Bodoi. Key areas of concern include, nutrition of pregnant women, the child up to two years, nutrition of lactating mothers among many other maternal health issues.
Key goals and aspects of BFCI:
- Promoting optimal infant feeding: This includes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by timely and appropriate introduction of complementary foods.
- Supporting breastfeeding mothers: BFCI provides guidance and support to address breastfeeding challenges and empower mothers to breastfeed successfully.
- Community-based approach: BFCI involves community health promoters (CHPs), community groups, and other stakeholders in implementing the program.
- Maternal nutrition and sanitation: BFCI also focuses on maternal nutrition and environmental sanitation to create a conducive environment for healthy child development.
- Integration of interventions: BFCI integrates various interventions, such as community gardens, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives, and early childhood development (ECD) programs.
