by Vasinatta Yama – EM TV, Port Moresby
Breastfeeding is an important reason why early childhood mortality in PNG is not higher than it was before.
Susu Mama PNG’supports the government initiative of encouraging mothers to give exclusive breastfeeding to their children during their first six months.
Susu Mama provides free breastfeeding services to mothers with breastfeeding issues. They also provide voluntary counselling services, family planning, advice on how to look after new born infants, health awareness to antenatal mothers, and primary health care through outreach programs.
Susu Mama also discourages mothers who bottle feed their babies. New born babies should be breastfed exclusively in their first six months, before starting off with foods such as mashed pumpkin, banana and pawpaw. Breastfeeding is also urged for the first two years of the infant’s life.
Susu Mama has been in PNG for over 30 years, providing services as a non-governmental organisation. In 2010, the NGO came under the Health Department, assisting clinics with their services.
They are now working alongside the National Population Policy 2015-2025, which strongly encourages the continued practice of breastfeeding. Mothers in Port Moresby who brought their children to Susu Mama today were showered with KK Kingston diapers and sanitary supplies.
Susu Mamas encourages mothers to visit the centre or, if they cannot, call them on their toll free number, 72006262 to speak to their nursing officers.
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