November 2024 — In the heart of Asmara, the National Eritrean Festival 2024 became a beacon of hope and progress with the launch of a transformative complementary feeding initiative. 

Integrating Breastfeeding Week

By integrating Breastfeeding Week into the festival, organizers leveraged the large gathering to amplify crucial messages on child nutrition and health. The focus on complementary feeding during Breastfeeding Week 2024 was championed under the inspiring motto: "Let's ensure children's optimal growth and development with complementary food, DMK, and continuous breastfeeding." This slogan encapsulates the multifaceted approach aimed at enhancing child health through education and accessible resources.

Innovative Android Application

A cornerstone of the campaign is a newly developed Android application, available in nine languages, dedicated to providing information on complementary feeding. This tool offers practical guidance on preparing nutritious food for children in their first 1,000 days, significantly contributing to their development and growth.

Community Engagement and Education

Families flocked to download the app, eager to learn about the importance of breastfeeding and complementary feeding. Interactive nutrition education sessions and video-supported cooking demonstrations were key components of the outreach, teaching parents how to prepare balanced, nutritious meals using local ingredients. This reflects the initiative's commitment to practical and culturally relevant solutions.

Accessible Resources

In addition to the app, informative videos and comprehensive leaflets were broadly distributed, ensuring that the message reached a wide audience. These resources provided accessible and practical advice for parents and families, making a significant impact on the community.

Reaching Thousands

So far, the initiative has reached 45,000 community members. By embedding Breastfeeding Week within the National Eritrean Festival, a dynamic platform was created to promote child health. Together, the community is making strides towards a future where every child has the healthiest start in life.

Call to Action

The campaign encourages everyone to download the app, watch the videos, use the leaflets, and support complementary feeding alongside continuous breastfeeding. This collective effort is paving the way for a healthier future for Eritrea's children.