SUPPORT FOR BREASTFEEDING
& INFANT NUTRITION

Breastmilk: biological gold for infants in crisis conditions

At AMURTEL, we are passionate about the unparalleled importance of breastfeeding.
Too many of our mothers, even those for whom breastfeeding is the norm in their native
countries, feel the need to formula feed or supplement with formula due to widely prevalent
myths such as not having enough or good quality milk in crisis situations.

Added to that is the widespread distribution of infant formula in humanitarian sites and the belief that formula feeding is part of European integration. Results are all too often disastrous for infants whose mothers may not have the knowledge or means to prepare formula properly or who are not able to continue to access a sufficient supply.

We are happy to say that nearly 75% of mothers attending our groups
or coming for individual consultations improve breastfeeding. Additionally,
more than half claim that they have learned a lot about feeding solid food
to infants and toddlers as well as how to do it well in a new country.

 

The global strategy for infant and young child feeding is based on respect, protection, facilitation
and fulfillment of accepted human rights principles. Nutrition is a crucial, universally recognised
component of the child’s right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health as
stated in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
WHO/UNICEF Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding, 2003

 

I breastfed my first two children in Afghanistan and I wanted to breastfeed my new baby but
everyone told me I couldn’t. They said I would not be a good mother if I didn’t give at least some
formula. I cannot tell you how relieved and happy I am that I got support here at AMURTEL to do
what I know is best. I am exclusively breastfeeding now.
Nasrin, 25, Afghanistan

I came to AMURTEL when I was pregnant with my 7th child. Despite having six children already,
I learned a lot about how to feed children well.
Justine, 40, Cameroon