Kampala, Uganda — Experts are calling for the urgent establishment of human milk banks at government-run health facilities—such as Kawempe Specialized National Referral Hospital—to bridge critical gaps in care for premature and critically ill neonates admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs).
Why Breast Milk Banks Matter
Premature and low-birth-weight infants admitted to NICUs often rely on infant formula when their mothers cannot provide sufficient milk. However, research and global health guidelines emphasize that the optimal nutrition for these vulnerable newborns is breast milk, especially donor human milk when a mother’s own supply is unavailable.
Progress and Potential in Uganda
Uganda’s Ministry of Health plans to invest in launching milk banks, with Kawempe and Mulago Women’s Hospital earmarked as pilot sites. Meanwhile, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya in Kampala became the first facility in the country to implement a human milk bank, following international best practices for safety, screening, and pasteurization.
Community Efforts
Outside hospitals, the ATTA Breastmilk Community has collected hundreds of liters of donated milk to support infants in need. While impactful, these grassroots initiatives face challenges in supply, storage, and testing for diseases like HIV and Hepatitis.
Advantages of Institutional Milk Banks
- Ensures safe, pasteurized donor human milk
- Supports premature, sick, or low-birth-weight infants
- Bolsters maternal lactation efforts
- Promotes exclusive breastfeeding and reduces hospitalization time
What’s Needed Next
- Policy Commitment & Funding for pilot and expansion
- Capacity Building for healthcare workers and equipment
- Public Awareness Campaigns to address misconceptions and increase acceptance
- Community Partnerships to complement hospital efforts
- Research & Monitoring to refine programs and guide national policy
Soruce: URN
