Tiny Victories: Uganda’s Milk Banks Offer Lifeline to Newborns
Donated breast milk in a refrigerator at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya in Kampala, Uganda, on Feb. 19, 2022. In November, the hospital launched Uganda’s first breast milk bank. (Patricia Lindrio/Global Press Journal)
Published By Everything ZA News
In a heartwarming development, Uganda is seeing a rise in the use of milk banks to help sick and premature newborns. These fragile babies often struggle to receive their mother’s milk due to various health complications. Milk banks provide a safe and essential source of breast milk, giving these vulnerable infants a fighting chance. Image source: PATRICIA LINDRIO, GPJ UGANDA
The story starts with St. Francis Hospital Nsambya in Kampala, which established Uganda’s first human milk bank in November 2021. This pioneering initiative highlighted the critical role breast milk plays in the health of newborns, particularly those facing challenges with latching or insufficient milk production from their mothers.
The bank functions by collecting milk from qualified donors. Donated milk is rigorously screened and pasteurized to ensure it’s safe for consumption by infants. This life-saving resource is then provided to premature and sick babies who are unable to access their mother’s milk.
The impact has been undeniable. Since its launch, the milk bank at St. Francis Nsambya has received donations from over 170 mothers and provided milk to countless newborns in need. This not only improves their health outcomes but also offers a glimmer of hope for families facing a difficult situation.
Uganda’s story doesn’t end there. ATTA Breastmilk Community, a registered non-profit organization, is another key player. Launched in 2021, ATTA goes beyond hospital settings, collecting and storing breast milk for distribution to babies in need across homes and healthcare facilities. Their dedication has connected over 200 mothers as donors and supported more than 450 newborns.
The rise of milk banks in Uganda signifies a crucial step forward in ensuring the well-being of vulnerable infants. By providing access to breast milk, these initiatives offer a powerful tool to combat neonatal mortality and illness, giving these precious lives a brighter future.
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