Strengthening Neonatal Care Through Mentorship and Breastfeeding Support at Muhima and Nyarugenge District Hospital
Strengthening Neonatal Care Through Mentorship and Breastfeeding Support
Kigali, Rwanda – August 2026: As part of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, We For Health conducted a vital outreach activity at the Neonatology Unit of Muhima Hospital. Twenty-five mothers and their newborns benefited from tailored breastfeeding counselling and support, reinforcing early initiation of breastfeeding and empowering families with practical skills to nurture their babies effectively.
Mme Mukamanzi Francine, Field Coordinator and Midwife Mentor representing We For Health, collaborated with Uwambajimana Hyacinthe, Matron of Neonatology Services at Muhima Hospital. Hyacinthe, a mentee in the mentorship programme, has been fully validated in competencies related to newborn and child health. Francine noted: “Through this activity, We For Health aims to promote appropriate breastfeeding and reinforce counselling through CPD and facility tools. This partnership exemplifies how mentorship strengthens health systems by equipping frontline staff with the knowledge and confidence to deliver high quality care.”
A compelling case highlighted the impact of mentorship: a mother with a premature baby who was too weak to breastfeed directly. Drawing on skills gained through the programme, Hyacinthe guided the mother on how to safely use a cup to feed her child, ensuring the baby received adequate nutrition. Parents expressed gratitude for the guidance, noting that the counselling gave them confidence to practice appropriate breastfeeding and provide their infants with the best possible start in life.
The campaign integrates facility-based activities, evidence-driven digital awareness, personal testimonies, and case studies to promote early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate complementary feeding, and stronger support for mothers. Together, these efforts strengthen neonatal care and ensure every mother has access to the knowledge and support needed to give her baby the healthiest start possible
On the 6th of August, We For Health marked Breastfeeding Awareness Month at Nyarugenge District Hospital by engaging with healthcare providers and supporting mothers to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding.
“Every newborn in Rwanda deserves the best start in life. Place your baby on the breast within the first hour after birth”.
Together, we are strengthening awareness and supporting families to give every child a healthier beginning.
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