Community of Breast Milk Donors in Uganda Gives Hope to Mothers Facing Health Challenges

In a simple story, a mother had twins who needed breast milk to get stronger. A kind neighbor with a newborn baby shared some milk with her. Later, a group called ATTA Breastmilk Community provided more milk for free until the babies were healthy enough to leave the hospital. Over 200 mothers donated milk to help more than 450 babies, with over 600 liters given out since July 2021. The reason for this help is that some mothers struggle to produce enough milk for their babies. Dr. Doreen Mazakpwe, a lactation specialist, explains that when a baby is not fed often or there are delays in breastfeeding, the mother's milk supply can decrease. This is why donated milk is important to support babies in need. The community collects and stores donated milk to distribute it to those who need it. Lelah Wamala, a mother in Kampala, donated milk after seeing premature babies suffer without enough milk. Dr. Mazakpwe helps mothers establish their milk supply, sometimes just by showing them how to hold the baby correctly. For mothers like Ikendi, who had premature babies, donated milk was crucial for their survival. She felt the pressure to breastfeed, even though she couldn't, but the donated milk helped her babies thrive for two months.