WBW 2012 Preparations Started

By Helen Ayamba, Email:helenayamba@yahoo.com
It's Time To Act After 10 Years Global Strategy And 20 Years WBW!
WABA has made known the theme for WBW 2012. In a release by the International Coordinator of the World Breastfeeding Week, Julianne Lim Abdullah, it was made lnow that 20 years ago, the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) launched its first World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) campaign with the theme: "Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative" and so much has happened in these 20 years. During the celebration this year, we are taking a look back to understand what has happened and why. Breastfeeding promotion and protection activists are planning more activities to support all women to be able to optimally feed and care for of their infants and young children.

2012 WBW Objectives
1. To recall what has happened in the past 20 years on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF).
2. To celebrate successes and achievements nationally, regionally and globally and showcase national work at global level.
3. To assess the status of implementation of the Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding (GS).
4. To call for action to bridge the remaining gaps in policy and programmes on breastfeeding and IYCF.
5. To draw public attention on the state of policy and programmes on breastfeeding and IYCF.

What is the Global Strategy?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) jointly developed and launched the Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding (GS) in 2002 reaffirming the four Innocenti targets set in 1995, and setting additional targets. The GS has identified a clear need for optimal infant feeding practices in reducing malnutrition as well as poverty. It is based on a human rights approach and calls for the development of comprehensive national policies on infant and young child feeding. It provides guidance on how to protect, promote and support exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond, together with adequate, appropriate and indigenous complementary feeding starting from the age of six (6) months.

How and Why we should monitor status of implementation of the Global Strategy?
In 2004 – 2005, the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN), that is one of WABA's core partners launched the World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative (WBTi) , to track, assess and monitor the implementation of the Global Strategy. According to UNICEF's State of the World's Children Report 2011, 136.7 million babies are born worldwide and only 32.6 % of them are breastfed exclusively in the first six months. According to the WBTi assessment of 40 countries, most of the 40 countries do not have an effective IYCF policy with an adequate budget for implementation. To be able to increase breastfeeding rates, it is important to assess policies and programmes and take action accordingly.
To prepare the minds of breastfeeding promoters and supporters in Cameroon towards the celebration of the World Breastfeeding Week 2012, we have shall be looking through the policy declarations made during the mass event launching in the past years. The videos on camlink99 channel take us back to Yaoundé, Obala, Ebolowa and Douala, where advocates for breastfeeding shared their opinions during mass events, emphasising the best option to guarantee the survival of babies. For more information, visit the following web sites – www.waba.org.my,

2012 WBW Photography Contest

Each year, WABA organizes a World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) Photography Contest. World Breastfeeding Week 2012 Photography contest is open until 15 March 2012. Advocates seize the opportunity to feature their breastfeeding photos in the year's Action Folder! Ten winning photos are selected, and contributors whose photos are featured in the WBW Action Folders, Posters and Banners are awarded US$100 for each published photo.

What WABA is looking for in 2012?
Countries are expected to mobilize people and resources for a national evaluation and create an information bulletin. Many countries are already involved in the process of World Breastfeeding Trend Initiative ratings. It is time for Cameroon to organize its second evaluation this year and plan a strategy for behaviour change communication. Cameroon Link has been a strong advocate for the respect of the articles of the International Code, as a means of promoting child rights. Cameroon Link will this year champion activities in the Central African region through the Federation of Cameroon Breastfeeding Promotions Associations, FECABPA. It has won the photo competition thrice. According to the president of FECABPA, a good photo can be taken if you understand issues related to breastfeeding. For more information visit the web site at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org You can also send a mail to Julianna Lim Abdullah, IBCLC through the following address: Email: julianna.lim@waba.org.my

WABA MWG Coordinator New Year Message 2012

On behalf of WABA MWG I would like to wish you all a Happy New Year and I hope your 2012 is off to a great start. The month of January is a time for new beginnings, but it is also a moment when we reflect on the previous year. In 2011, Men's Initiative began exciting new programs with a review of its activity sheet to meet up with current challenges. We lost dear ones, but we also received new faces on board. At the same time we have reaffirmed our commitment to continue to promote, protect and support breastfeeding in various ways through community of learning open distance skills training opportunities.
We are proud of all we achieved in 2011 especially with the reshaping of the Men's Initiative e-newsletter. We could not have done it without the support of all at WABA Secretariat, our partners, national networks, regional networks, donors and people like you, who are passionate about the work we do. In your various countries and regions, there are many ways you can play an active role in changing the world through information, education and support of expectant mothers and lactating mothers. Find out more about WABA Men’s Initiative campaigns and get creative with your awareness raising activities! Take a chance to inform and engage people on important global infant and young child feeding issues. Also remember that change doesn't happen on its own. We have to act collectively. When at http://uk.youtube.com/camlink99, click on breastfeeding promotion at the right corner and you will find yourself at"http://www.waba.org.my" web site. Congratulations to our IT specialists for connecting us better every day. We wish that 2012 should open the door for "Peace, Good Health, the achievement of your heart's desires and Happiness!
James Achanyi-Fontem
Coordinator,
WABA Men’s Initiative
Email: camlink99@gmail.com
You Tube: http://uk.youtube.com/camlink99
Online Radio: http://www.spreaker.com/page#!/show/the_camlink_douala_show

10e Assemblée Générale Ordinaire de la FECABPA à Yaoundé

Par Mme Priscille Emma Mouto, COGESID Bonamikano
42 délégués ont participés à l’assemblée générale ordinaire de la « Federation of Cameroon Breastfeeding Promotion Associations », FECABPA, le 26 novembre 2011 au siège de WATAMONOMO à Mvog Ada Yaoundé sur la présidence de M. James Achanyi-Fontem, le président national.
C’est à 10H00 que le président national de la FECABPA propose l’ordre du jour qui était adopté avant la vérification du quorum. L’ordre du jour était composé de :
1.Présentation individuelle des participants
2.Désignation d’un rapporteur ( Mme Mouto Emma Priscille de COGESID Bonamikano)
3.Prière par Mme Mendo Emmanuelle Raymonde de CASAMAC d’Ebolowa
4.Mot de bienvenue de la présidente de WATAMONOMO
5.Lecture d’un Poème sur l’allaitement maternel par un jeune de WATAMONOMO
6.Lecture du rapport de la dernière assemblée tenue chez CASAMAC Ebolowa , dans la région du sud Cameroun par Tsenou Martine Yolande
7.Orientation des activités de la FECABPA en 2012 par le président national , M. James Achanyi-Fontem
8.Organisation d’une causerie éducative sur la démarche pour une bonne mobilisation sociale communautaire dans le cadre de la promotion de l’allaitement maternel par Mme Fokoua Meffo Hélène
9.Présentation de la situation financière de la FECABPA en 2011
10.Cooptation des nouveaux membres
11.Annonce du lieu et la date de la prochaine assemblée générale.
C’est après la prière que Mme Endja Emilienne a pris la parole pour souhaiter la bienvenue aux membres de la FECABPA en disant le groupe AFEYMEK WATAMONOMO existe depuis 10 ans et la légalisation se fait en 2008. WATAMONOMO est composé de 30 membres guidé par un président d’honneur.
WATAMONOMO mènent des activités sur :
La mobilisation sociale et sensibilisation des populations sur les problèmes de santé en générale
La promotion de l’allaitement maternel
La promotion et éducation de la population sur l’importance d’hygiène et salubrité
La recherche des solutions liées aux problèmes de la pauvreté à travers le renforcement des capacités des femmes sur la gestion des micro entreprises et
Le soutien aux couches vulnérables et personnes âgés
Mme Endja a conclu son discours en disant que le succès de WATAMONOMO est grâce à des partenaires comme le ministère de la santé publique et la FECABPA.
Le jeune Endja Mathieu est introduit et il présente son poème sur l’allaitement maternel

Allaitement Maternel
Merci Chers parents, pour la vie que vous m’avez donnée ;
Merci encore pour ce don précieux que maman m’a donnée de façon exclusive jusqu’à l’âge de 6 mois ;
Merci pour cette précieuse protection dont j’ai bénéficié ;
Merci pour cette grande marque d’amour ;
Merci pour avoir échappé aux maladies de l’enfance ;
Merci papa chéri pour avoir soutenu maman pendant la période de l’allaitement maternel ;
Merci à vous les associations de soutien à l’allaitement maternel ;
Merci au monde entier pour la lutte contre la mortalité néonatale, infantile et maternelle ;
Merci maman, merci maman d m’avoir allaité.

Les membres applaudissent les mots affectueux adressés aux parents par le jeune Endja Mathieu et félicitent son talent. Dans le rapport de l’assemblée générale tenue à Ebolowa, Tsenou Martine Yolande trace les activités menées en 2011 en rappelant aux membres la nécessité de payer les cotisations annuelles.
Dans le cadre des orientations des activités de la FECABPA, M. James Achanyi-Fontem, le président national qui est en même temps le Coordinateur international de l’Initiative d’hommes de WABA, a fait une mise à jour de son programme pour faciliter la mise en place d’un plan d’action pour 2012 qui sera axé sur le renforcement des capacités des associations –membres de la FECABPA.
Il encourage d’avantage l’implication des hommes dans la promotion de la santé de reproduction et la nutrition infantile au Cameroun. Il ajoute que les conseils donnés aux mamans doivent aussi être donnés aux hommes, parce que la prise en charge d’un bébé n’est pas un faire de la mère seule.
Selon le coordinateur de l’initiative d’hommes de WABA, l’homme doit être plus prêt de sa femme après l’accouchement parce qu’elle a besoin du soutien, de la chaleur, de l’amour, de la confiance et des encouragements.
Pendant la période de la grossesse, la femme doit être en harmonie avec son partenaire pour éviter le stress et les angoisses, qui souvent modifient les hormones dans les corps de la femme et ceci peut avoir un effet sur le développement du fœtus.
L’allaitement étant une partie très important dans la santé de reproduction, il faut enrichir la nutrition de la mère pendant la grossesse pour que le bébé soit bien nourrit qu’a la nutrition pendant la tété dépend de celle de sa mère.
L’enfant grandit en confiance quand il est gardé par ses deux parents après l’accouchement. Il faut reconnaitre que c’est le droit de l’enfant pour être bien encadré. Le dialogue d’un couple pour la prise de décision est important pour la survie de l’enfant.

Comment transmettre le message entre le couple ?

Il faut étudier les caractères des uns et des autres pour pouvoir savoir quand passer un message pour le changement de comportement. Le couple doit s’entraider.

Comment créer les groupes de soutiens des mères ?
Il faut organiser plus des échanges avec d’autres associations de familles communautaires et initier les activités d’animation.

Comment chercher d’aide financière ?
Il ne faut pas toujours voir l’aide en termes d’argent. Il faut solliciter les aides en nature qui peuvent être transformées en argent. Pour réussir, les hommes et les femmes doivent travailler ensemble et participer à la conception du projet de l’association. Il faut organiser les soirées de récréatives dans la communauté et faire participer les élites. Il faut bien expliquer pour l’association cherche des ressources financière pour la planification et l’utilisation dans leur contributions.

Plan d’Action de la FECABPA

La FECABPA va continuer à organiser les réunions rotatives chaque trois mois avec les petites formations de renforcement de capacité des membres. Les membres seront encouragés à se faire recenser au niveau du ministère de la santé publique. Les lettres de collaboration sont signés au niveau des délégations régionales et les associations doivent transmettre leurs rapports d’activités à ces délégations avec les autorisation d’existence d’association.

Contribution Financière
Les associations –membres n’ont pas fait les cotisations à Mvog Ada – Yaoundé.

Prochaine Réunion
La prochaine réunion de la FECABPA est programmée au siège de Cameroun Link à Bonabéri-Douala à une date qui sera annoncé en mars 2012.

Men’s Support for Breastfeeding

By James Achanyi-Fontem
CEO, Cameroon Link
WABA Men’s Working Group Coordinator
Email:camlink99@gmail.com
Why involve men in breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is an important part of reproduction and health that biologically involves mothers and children. However, breastfeeding also concerns fathers as their attitudes towards breastfeeding strongly influence the mothers own point of view.
Fathers are generally an important source of support in a mother´s decision to breastfeed and in its implementation. There is also a positive connection between the degree of father support and the total duration of breastfeeding. A father´s involvement in the breastfeeding situation strengthens his relationship to both the child and partner, and helps him to develop his parental role in general. Highlighting the father’s role in more general terms such as parenting can broaden the argument for supporting breastfeeding.

Advantages of an active father role in parenting

Acclaimed researchers describe several advantages when both parents are active and engaged in taking care of children, compared to only one active parent. A few examples:
• Children’s psychological development and social skills are favoured in the communication with two committed parents.
• Fathers develop their empathic ability, considering that women are more trained at this.
• A more equal division of responsibilities increases the possibilities for both parents to fill many roles within the family complex, which tend to make them more satisfied with their lives.
• Cultures where fathers are more committed to childcare seem to produce less hostility and violence between men and women, compared to other cultures.

The role of the father is a gender issue

Gender that is considered to be masculinity versus femininity is a system of continually evolving social practices, which defines roles, assigns resources, and establishes power relations. According to this definition, gender roles are dynamic, constructed through social interaction, reinforced and reproduced by social institutions.
Gender researchers claim that as long as women are assumed to be more responsible than men for childcare, women´s role as mothers will continue to be a major obstacle to their achieving economic and social equality with men. Therefore, father’s involvement in childcare, including breastfeeding, is clearly a gender issue.
Gender equity and equality work towards a society where women and men have equal opportunities, rights and obligations in all aspects of life. From a gender perspective, how paid work and care giving are combined reflects assumptions and norms in the gendered situations of family and work.

Learning about gender issues – for all men

A father’s relation to breastfeeding relates to his and the environments perception of what his role should be. Traditionally, caring for children is not an important part of the concept of masculinity, as it is in the concept of femininity. This issue must be discussed and our ideas about masculinity must be challenged.
Just like the mothers, fathers need knowledge and incentives to be supportive. Attitudes concerning breastfeeding are influenced from all kinds of sources surrounding the family - relatives, friends, practitioners, legislators - and these attitudes can be linked to values of lifestyle and stereotype gender roles. In this perspective breastfeeding should be a concern, not only for fathers, but for all men.

Enabling men to be more supportive
Parental education
Many men need to be better prepared to assume a role as breastfeeding supporters. Studies have shown that breastfeeding education and promotion programs have effects on knowledge, attitudes and support for breastfeeding. Evidence suggests that even simple and inexpensive interventions can increase the level of breastfeeding knowledge of men.
In his supportive role it is also important that the father understands what it means for a woman, both physically and psychologically, to go through pregnancy, delivery and start breastfeeding. A well informed father knows the importance of being patient and sensitive as the mother recovers from the birth experience and gains confidence in breastfeeding. By importing the same knowledge and sharing the breastfeeding moments, the father is helping the new mother to gain breastfeeding skills. He can also protect her from misinformation about breastfeeding in the community, or even well-meant advice from friends and relatives. Sharing the care and responsibility of the new life will strengthen the parental relationship in this difficult period of transition and adjustment.
Today most preparatory courses for parents are organized by the maternity health care. The education is generally of a practical nature and focusing on medical factors of pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. This important forum should also involve issues of social and individual change, and create space for especially fathers to reflect on their situation and role. By focusing on and activating fathers, their role strengthens and they get a wider knowledge, more adjusted to their life situation and thus more useful to them.
There are, of course, many different ways to construct a support group for parents, where they get information and can discuss parenthood. The right way to do it depends on the interests and needs of the people you are aiming at. For instance, a group of men work differently a few months before delivery compared to some months after the child is born.
It is generally easier to reach fathers before delivery than after, which is the time when most decisions on infant feeding are made. The most crucial step is how you invite them to participate: what kind of information about the group is shared, who it is that deliver this information and through which channel. In reaching fathers, it might be better if the "speaker" is a man that the forum addresses complimentary issues that you would expect the target group to be interested in like economics of breastfeeding. This will help to avoid pictures and expressions that might come through as feminine in any printed material, etc

Supporting fathers

Fathers need support to be supportive. During the period of pregnancy, the expectant mother attends counseling sessions at the clinic, but her partner is not counseled. A father that views himself to be subordinate as parent and does his part mostly out of expectation and duty is not likely to give support of a higher quality. It is important for the mother to trust her partner and to show that trust by inviting him to jointly take care of the little child. The father can also be motivated by understanding the advantages of him spending time with the baby, for example that it is likely to benefit the well-being of the whole family.
In becoming a parent, mothers are generally more in touch with examining this new step in life compared to fathers. The supportive role of the father is depending on the values of people around him. Often it is not expected of a father to engage himself in the care of the newborn baby.
A mother may need time and space for relaxation, especially when the child is anxious or ill. Those periods it is an advantage if the father and child have developed a contact that allows the mother to be alone for awhile, to rest and regain strength without having to worry about the other two. This procedure of course requires that the mother is willing to give this confidence and that the father wants to take it. Breastfeeding can sometimes inhibit fathers from developing close relationships to their children and also have a negative effect on the parent relationship. This is a concern that has to be dealt with. Fathers may feel excluded, jealous and resentful to the detriment of breastfeeding success and the adult couple relationship. Helping fathers to find other ways and situations where they can develop a close relationship with their child will be important.
Fathers sometimes feel neglected and made disassociated by relatives, friends and even the maternity services. Fathers can feel themselves as”parent number two” or, even worse, not to be reckoned with as child-care givers at all. Maternity services should develop methods that signal to fathers that they are important and offer them special information on papers or arranging special father groups or meetings.

Delivering right messages

Information can, if delivered in a right way, influence fathers and change their views and behaviour. Engaging with family professionals can impact positively on fathers’ negative behaviour and parenting styles; increase their knowledge and understanding of child development; increase their confidence in their parenting skills; and lead to more sensitive and positive parenting and to greater involvement in infant and child care, and in interaction with children.
In countries where it is accepted that fathers are present during delivery, fathers should be encouraged to do so as his presence during delivery seems to have positive effects on the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Having the father nearby during the first hours after labor seems to make it easier for mothers to successfully initiate breastfeeding and also seems to positively influence the duration of breastfeeding. This needs to be encouraged.

Father´s attitudes towards breastfeeding

Some fathers harbor misconceptions and negative attitudes toward breastfeeding. To overcome obstacles, issues of breastfeeding need to be discussed with both parents, during childbirth preparation classes and prenatal visits. Professionals must make sure that this information reaches the fathers.
The two most common ideas about reasons for the negative attitudes of fathers is concern that their partner's breasts may be exposed to others and that the breasts may change and get less attractive. Actually there is not much knowledge about why some fathers are negative about breastfeeding. If we knew more about this, better measures could be taken.
As described above, a mother's perception of her partner's attitudes toward breastfeeding influences her choice of infant feeding method. However, she is often wrong about this. Scientific research has shown that fathers may have more favorable attitudes toward breastfeeding than their partners think.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a common affliction which severely can lower mothers’ incentive to breastfeed and in other ways cause difficulties to babies’ health. If rightly informed, fathers can be made watchers over the psychological health of their partner, as they are likely to know them rather well and notice if there is some serious trouble arising, and if necessary act so help can be requested through contact with the local maternity service or others.

Young fathers

Young fathers can be seen as a special risk group. Young fathers have a harder time identifying themselves as fathers and, surprisingly enough, professionals tend to neglect them. Also, concerning young couples, the quality of the relationship between the couple themselves seem to be the most important factor for high father involvement the months after birth. This is another argument for involving the importance of the parental relationship in the information offered by the maternity health care and other professionals

Actions for behavior change communication

•Breastfeeding education should be provided to all adult family members, including the father.
•Parenting interventions should always include fathers.
•Give professionals training and methods to reach and educate parents in a way that promotes breastfeeding. Methods may need to be developed to meet the requirements of today’s parents. Among other things a modern and thoroughly accomplished preparatory course would give parents tools for creating a family situation aiming at communication, support and satisfaction, which is favorable to everyone concerned, including the child.
•The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends six months of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding plus partial breastfeeding until the child is two years old. This step should be taken by authorities in all countries.
•Spread the knowledge that children are favored by much contact with both its parents.
•A father should be encouraged to let his partner frequently know that he approves of her breastfeeding, and let others know as well.
•Spread images that taking care of children is a masculine behavior.
•Influence politicians and governments to produce laws that give fathers the possibilities to engage more in the concerns of home and children, and mothers the possibilities to engage more in bread-winning labor.
•Start groups for fathers, especially those who live in a vulnerable life situation. Remember that a first time father usually has no knowledge about all the facts that could be important for him and his child, what his role could be, and that he has to battle against much of prejudice if he wants to become what he can become as a father.
•Find out why fathers have negative views towards breastfeeding and with that knowledge know what to do and how to meet those attitudes...
•Many representatives of society must embrace that they are working in organizational structures that are built long ago and as such carries old values, and that it is one of the duties of these professionals to acknowledge this and make efforts for change.
•Men (and boys) should encourage other men (and boys) to engage in taking greater responsibility in domestic work, caring for children, safe sex and family planning.

Prof. Michael Latham: A Nutrition Baobab Falls

By James Achanyi-Fontem
Coordinator, WABA Men’s Initiative
Email: camlink99@gmail.com
Emeritus Professor Michael Latham passed into transition peacefully around 4:30pm on(April 1, 2011). He was surrounded by his sons and friends during his transition. Michael 's leadership and devotion to human nutrition worldwide lives on in the many graduate students he has trained, who have gone on to be leaders in their own right, as well as in the many colleagues he has influenced through his research and writings. Michael was seen as a "Living Legend" in international nutrition and this loss is especially painful for Cornell University and the Division of Nutritional Sciences. Considering his activities during the WABA conferences, the members of Men’s Working Group have lost a deeply caring, thoughtful and committed colleague.
The family believes Michael is still with us, just in a different way. They really appreciated all of the support during Michael's period of poor health and they expect to read more about his life in the days ahead. The United Nations System Standing Committee on Nutrition issued an award of merit to Michael Latham for his outstanding lifelong contributions and service to nutrition in Hanoi, Vietnam in March 2008. Professor Michael Latham was honoured by Dr. Elisabeth Sterken, the Chair of NGO/Civil Society Group who highlighted his important contributions to advancing health and nutrition among mothers and children. Professor Latham has had a distinguished career in academia and in health service, working in Tanzania and Uganda in Africa before joining the Graduate School of Nutrition at Cornell University where he continues to supervise students. He is a cofounder and co-chair of the advisory group of the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action. His legacy however, is through his students who work throughout the world extending his commitment to maternal and child health.
Still in 2008, about 60 former students of Cornell Professor Michael Latham and his international nutrition program honoured their former professor at Cornell, July 3-6.
The Cornell International Nutrition Alums Reunion celebrated Latham's 40 years as professor of international nutrition, his scientific and other contributions to health and nutrition worldwide and his 80th birthday. Alumni hailed from such countries as Indonesia, South Africa, Tanzania, Guatemala, Sweden and Haiti, as well as from many parts of the United States and Canada.
In May 2007, the African Nutrition Graduate Students Network (AGSNet) presented its first lifetime achievement award to Dr. Michael C. Latham (right), professor emeritus and graduate school professor of nutritional sciences at Cornell, for his work to improve nutrition in Africa.
The award was presented at the first conference of the Federation of African Societies of Nutrition in Ouarzazate, Morocco, May 7-9, 2007. A day earlier, Dr. Latham delivered the inaugural address, "Combating Infections to Control Malnutrition," at the second biennial conference of AGSNet, which was founded at Cornell with the help of then UNU Food and Nutrition Programme (UNU-FNP) director Cr. Cutberto Garza. UNU-FNP still sponsors the network.
Dr. Latham was director of Cornell's Program in International Nutrition for 25 years. He also authored several books, including Kilimanjaro Tales: The Saga of a Medical Family in Africa, Human Nutrition in Tropical Africa and Human Nutrition in the Developing World" and more than 350 journal articles. He frequently served as a consultant in Africa, Asia and Latin America for the World Health Organization, UN Food and Agriculture Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank and the White House. In 1994 he consulted with Fidel Castro on how to curb Cuba's neuropathy epidemic.

Pauline Kisanga Directs COUNSENUTH Tanzania

By James Achanyi-Fontem,
Cameroon Link
Email: camlink99@gmail.com
The Centre for Counselling, Nutrition and Health Care (COUNSENUTH) has announced the election of Pauline Kisanga as new Executive Director for COUNSENUTH, effective from 1st January 2011. According to the organisation, this change is part of COUNSENUTH’s usual process of activating leadership. Mrs. Kisanga takes over from Ms. Restituta Shirima who served as Executive Director from January 2007 to December 2010.
Mrs. Kisanga is taking to the centre a wealth of experience and expertise which is expected to make COUNSENUTH grow, expand and flourish. Mrs Kisanga has long experience in nutrition and management, which includes the years served as a Director for Community Nutrition and also Director for Nutrition Education at Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre (TFNC) in the 1990s.
From Tanzania, Pauline Kisanga served as Regional for the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) Africa, based in Swaziland for 12 years. COUNSENUTH is excited having her and looks forward to very fruitful years ahead for the organisation under her leadership.
Cameroon Link will join all the members of the WABA Men’s Working Group to accord her the cooperation that previous directors have enjoyed. Cameroon Link appreciates the partnership/collaboration it has always had with COUNSENUTH, and looks forward to
even stronger partnerships and working relations in order to continue efforts towards improvement of the quality of life of all mothers and children in Tanzania, Cameroon and Africa as a whole. The chairperson of COUNSENUTH, Mary G. Materu, announcing the good news said, “Together we can make a positive difference”.Congratulations! Pauline. For information, visit the website or write to: Mary G. Materu, MSc., Chairperson The Centre for Counselling, Nutrition and Health Care (COUNSENUTH)
432 United Nations Road, P.O. Box 8218, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
Cell Phone: (255) 754 279 145
Website: counsenuth-tz.org
Blog: http://www.jipende.com

WABA Secretariat Revamped

By James Achanyi-Fontem, Coordinator, WABA MWG
Email: camlink2001@yahoo.com
Sarah Amin, Director of WABA, has announced two very important promotions within the secretariat of the organisation on February 1, 2011. The announcement was done on Kong Hei Fatt Choy - The Chinese New Year’s day. The Chinese new year of the metal rabbit came with the good tidings of two promotions within the WABA Secretariat:

The first is the promotion of Julianna Lim Abdullah, IBCLC, our very own International World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) Coordinator, to Deputy Director of WABA. Julianna started her new position as of 1 February 2011 and is taking on more of the administrative and management task of the office; working closely with Sita Letchmi and the director.

The second promotion is Sita Letchmi, who moved from Coordinator of Administration and Governance to Senior Coordinator also started 1 February 2011. She is taking on more of the financial responsibilities together with the director of WABA.

The Financial Officer, Dorothy Teng, is reported to have resigned as of 1 February 2011. The Secretariat will be advertising the position for a new Accounts person soon.
Bravo! Julianna and Sita from the Men’s Working Group and Cameroon Link

Men Supporting Mothers through COL

Learning from Community Media:
Participation, Education & Development
By James Achanyi-Fontem
Email: camlink2001@gmail.com
Sir John Daniel, the President and CEO of the Commonwealth of Learning, COL, Prof. Asha Kenwar and Ian Pringle respectively, are names that media professionals, who attended the 6th Pan COL held at Kochi, India from the 24th – 28 November 2010 will live to remember for consolidating partnerships on how the agenda of Mother and Child Health Care can be taken one step forward.“Linking Media to Health Development”, which Cameroon Link addressed, was demonstrated through a Radio in a Box experiment at the Meridien Forum Centre in Kochi.throughout the period of the forum attended by over 600 delegates.
The Vice President of Col, Prof. Asha Kenwar, who also doubles as the Programme Director, was taken live on “Radio Commons” at the PCF6 Centre. This COL Forum Initiative aimed at showing how all sectors of the community can be involved in project design, decision making, execution, monitoring and evaluation for Mother and Child Health Care promotion.
The WABA Men’s Initiative Coordinator and Executive Director of Cameroon Link highlighted the current project in Lebialem, south west region of Cameroon producing programmes on the issues of “Mother and Child Health Care” delivered through Lebialem Community Radio as a good example.
Cameroon Link mapped the community’s human resource, and gave equal participation opportunities for involvement of both men and women, including young persons living within the community to tell their stories as a Community of Learning process.
The involvement of men and youths in communities for mother and child health care support creates an enabling environment where men and youths, particularly fathers or partners, participate actively in sharing responsibilities with women as far as caring for their infants and young children is concerned.
In mapping the human resource capital, representatives are drawn from the radio station, the public service sector, traditional leadership, health, education, social welfare and civil society organisations. In effect, the mother and child health care community of learning action is participatory.
The small people in the community are used to address big issues. They are invited for exchanges and decision making meetings regularly. It is during the community development committee meetings that the issues are introduced. Those selected are people who are readily available and accept to service as volunteers, they are respected and accessible by their peers within the community.
During the process, it is often discovered that most of those elected for training to produce the radio programmes are already playing a role of animators within their community or development committee.
Almost every man or woman in the community is known to belong to a meeting group, where regular exchanges take place on weekly basis. Training the members of the orientation committee of local broadcasters only comes to add to their existing skills and capacity; especially as the language of delivery of the healthy community learning programmes for behaviour change is a popular local language.
Cameroon Link’s current activities focus on “Mother and Child Health Care” rights as part of the men’s advocacy channel for behaviour change communication.
As such, the health programmes,
• Continue to challenge trade laws that prioritize profit over access to life-saving possibilities.
• Create men’s, women’s leadership and ownership training opportunities within local communities by the establishment of or collaboration with local health area men/women gender councils and related health taskforces.
• Educate, inform, lobby funding organizations and service providers for the involvement of young persons, especially teen mothers in care and support activities,
• Promote social norm change campaigns through publications, participation in local community radio and television programmes, fostering relationships with media outlets and through well recognized male and female celebrities for the promotion of women and child rights.
• Participate in planning, organizing and broadcasting programmes during UN international and national days with women’s involvement in radio live shows and pre-recorded programmes on Mother and Child Health Care rights..

OBJECTIVES
The Community Learning Programmes on Radio
* increase the awareness of need for and the value of male and youth to participate equqlly in the execution of the radio programmes.
* disseminate information updates on mother and child health care though the radio programme.
* create optimal conditions for the provision of support to the mother

Specific objectives
It is understood that the subject of mother and child health care is very vast and this explains the reasons for putting in place an orientation committee to discuss and decide on the issues treated during the week’s session. This explains why the specific objectives are:
- To inculcate the mastery of basic principles of mother and child health care.
- To advocate for gender equality and women's empowerment through government’s increased allocation for gender-sensitive policies and programmes.
- To vulgarize the main points on the support that mothers merits from their partners;
- To create radio mothers’, fathers’ and youths’ support clubs within the communities to encourage mothers to breastfeed their babies for the first six months exclusively and continue with complimentary feeding, thereafter with continued breastfeeding up to six months and beyond.
- To educate youths and men on the international code advocacy and monitoring of marketing by formula producing companies and distributors.
- To Organize HIV prevention and home care radio campaigns.

Perspective
It is the role of the radio station to create conducive environment for their involvement of men and youths to appropriate and own the programme through their support to mothers.
- The other media, tv and newspapers, are used as complimentary channels and tools for community outreach on the involvement of men and youths for mother support.
- Youths Social mobilization conferences are organized in colleges for students of examination classes. This is seen as a special target in the community for the acceleration of behavior change.

Cameroon Link Activities Sheet
Cameroon Link, acting as COL Partnership Liaison makes sure that an activity sheet is designed and used for monitoring and evaluation. Key activities on the sheet are:
• Radio Press Releases
• Radio, television and video programming.
• Radio Press Conferences
• Past Events Film Screening on market days
• Recycling and organization of workshops for community broadcasters
• Seminars for community leaders and heads of educational institutions
• Organisation of panels recording of programmes.
• Photos, posters, story and drama competitions for colleges
• Lectures, educative talks, debates and testimonies
• Concerts, street drama, plays and theatres
• Community social mobilisation: Organisation of Radio Quiz, distribution of stickers, message leaflets, information kits and other promotion publications

SMAM 2010 AU CAMEROUN

COMPTE RENDU DES ACTIVITES DE LA SMAM 2010 AU COGESID BONAMIKANO, AVEC LA COLLABORATION DU PARRAIN, M. James ACHANYI FONTEM …
Par Mme Priscille Mouto
La Présidente COGESID
Bonamikano-Douala,Cameroun
Après avoir participé aux réunions préparatoires de la SMAM 2010 au ministère de la santé à Yaoundé vint le jour du lancement officiel des activités de la semaine. Ce fut le 03/08/10 que le ministre de la santé à André MAMA FOUDA à procédé au lancement officiel à HGOPY (hôpital gynéco-obstétrique et pédiatrique de Yaoundé). Etaient présents d’autres ministres nationaux, le président FECABPA (Fédération Camerounaise de la Promotion de l’allaitement Maternel), des représentants des organismes internationaux tels que : l’UNICEF, HKI, Helene kelly Foundation etc.
Comme il est d’usage qu’après le lancement officiel, chaque association rentre dans son district de santé pour organiser des rencontres, dans le but de sensibiliser les femmes et les hommes, le personnel médical et surtout de transmettre le message du ministre de la santé, sans oublier des orientations des organismes internationaux sur la question de l’allaitement maternel.
Le 04/08/10 Cogesid Bonamikano a organisé une rencontre au centre de santé sis à Bonambappe-Bonassama.
Nous avons d’abord eu un entretien avec le personnel de santé du centre, puis tour à tour avec ce personnel, le président de la FECABPA Mr Achanyi Fontem et moi-même présidente de COGESID Bonamikano, Priscille mouto, avons expliqués le thème de l’année à savoir : « les 10 Conditions pour le succès de l’allaitement ».
Nous avons été couverte par lles media, a télévision Canal 2 Tv, qui a fait large diffusion de cette semaine avec une emission speciale et M. Achanyi Fontem était l’invité.
Près d’une cinquantaine de femmes avaient répondu présentes à cette rencontre. Entre autres, nous avons assisté à la démonstration et à la mise au sein correcte par quelques mamans volontaires dont l’une ayant des jumelles de 7 mois, celles-ci prenant le lait maternel uniquement depuis leur naissance. Les tricots et savons ont été distribués à chaque maman présente pendant la causeries éducative.
Il a été aussi convenu avec les mamans, la création d’un groupe de soutien des mères le 25 aout 2010.

SMAM 2010 Est Là !

LA REUNION PREPARATOIRE DE LA 19eme EDITION DE LA SEMAINE MONDIALE DE L’ALLAITEMENT MA TERNEL (SMAM 2010)
Thème: « Allaitement Maternel: Suivre les Dix Conditions pour Garantir la Sante de l'Enfant et de la Mère ».
Le vendredi, 09 juillet 2010, s’est tenue dans la salle de réunion de la Direction de la Promotion de la Sante, la première réunion préparatoire de la Semaine Mondiale de l’Allaitement Maternel (SMAM 2010) sous la présidence de Monsieur OKALA Georges, Sous-directeur de l’alimentation et de la Nutrition en lieu et place du Directeur de la Promotion de la Sante empêché. 43 personnes ont participés à la réunion.
La liste des participants est jointe en annexe. Quatre points étaient inscrits à l’ordre du jour, à savoir:
1. Mot introductif du Directeur de la Promotion de la Sante;
2. Présentation du thème de la SMAM 2010 ;
3. Présentation des plans d'action des Associations;
4. Questions diverses.
1- Mot introductif du Sous-directeur de I ‘alimentation et de la Nutrition dans son mot introductif, le Sous-directeur de l'alimentation et de la Nutrition, a tout d'abord adressé les remerciements à tous les participants et leur a souhaite la bienvenue à cette première réunion préparatoire.
Il a ensuite évoque l'augmentation du taux de l'allaitement maternel au vu des statistiques : 1 % il y a 15 ans, 11 % environ en 1998 et en 2006, nous sommes passés a 24 %. La mise au sein à l'heure qui suit l'accouchement a pris également le même chemin. Il a rappelé que la SMAM est un moment ou nous nous arrêtons pour réfléchir et faire le point.
Apres ce propos liminaire, l’ordre du jour proposé a été adopte.
2- Présentation du thème de la SMAM 2010
Le thème retenu cette année est « Allaitement Maternel: Suivre les Dix Conditions pour Garantir la Sante de I’ Enfant et de la Mère ».
Les dix conditions pour le succès de I' allaitement, recommandées à tout établissement qui fournit des services de maternité et des soins au nouveau-né sont:
1. Adopter une politique d’allaitement maternel formulée par écrit.
2. Donner à tous les membres du personnel soignant les compétences nécessaires pour mettre en œuvre cette politique.
3. Informer toutes les femmes enceintes des avantages de I' allaitement maternel.
4. Placer le bébé en peau a peau avec sa mère immédiatement à la naissance, pendant au moins une heure et encourager la mère a reconnaitre quand le bébé est prêt a téter, en proposant de I' aide si besoin.
5. Indiquer aux mères comment pratiquer I' allaitement au sein et comment entretenir la lactation même si elles se trouvent séparées de leur nourrisson.
6. Ne donner aux nouveau-nés aucun aliment ni aucune boisson autre que le lait maternel, sauf indication médicale.
7. Laisser l'enfant avec sa mère 24h/24h par jour.
8. Encourager I' allaitement au sein à la demande de I' enfant.
9. Ne donner aux enfants nourris au sein aucune tétine artificielle ou sucette.
10. Encourager la constitution d'associations de soutien a l'allaitement maternel et leur adresser les mères des leur sortie de l'hôpital ou de la clinique.
Apres la présentation de ces conditions, les objectifs et les résultats attendus de la SMAM 2010 ont également été présentés :
OBJECTIFS DE LA SMAM 2010
• Souligner la contribution importante des Dix Conditions a I' allaitement maternel exclusif;
• Dynamiser les activités au sein des systèmes de sante, et parmi les agents de sante et les communautés, afin de soutenir les femmes dans leur projet d’allaitement;
• Informer les gens partout dans le monde que la protection, la promotion et le soutien de l’allaitement maternel est un droit de la mère, un droit de l’enfant, et un droit humain ;
• Permettre aux femmes et a tous ceux qui se soucient des droits humains de se battre en faveur des systèmes de soins qui soutiennent I' allaitement maternel ;
• Assurer que les agents de sante qui prennent soin des mères et des bébés aient une formation adéquate pour conseiller et soutenir I’ alimentation optimale du nourrisson.
Résultats attendus
• .La contribution des Dix Conditions a I' allaitement maternel exclusif soulignée;
• Les activités au sein des systèmes de sante et parmi les agents de sante et les communautés dynamisées, afin de soutenir les femmes dans leur projet de l’allaitement;
• .Les leaders informés que la protection, la promotion et le soutien de l'allaitement maternel sont des droits de la mère, de l'enfant et des droits humains;
• Les femmes et tous ceux qui se soucient des droits humains aptes à se battre en faveur des systèmes de soins qui soutiennent I ‘allaitement maternel;
• Les agents de sante qui prennent soin des mères et des bébés adéquatement formés pour conseiller et soutenir l'alimentation optimale au nourrisson.
Le Président de Cameroon Link, James Achanyi-Fontem, est intervenu à la suite de ces présentations
pour réitérer les VOEUX de la WABA de 2010 qui est celui d’avoir plus de 22.000 hôpitaux Ami des Bébés cette année. II a suggéré que le Ministère de la Sante puisse évaluer les Hôpitaux Amis des Bébés parce que le Cameroun n'a aucun Hôpital Amis des Bébés labélisé jusqu' a présent.
Certains représentants des structures sanitaires ont soulevé le problème de la promotion faite par les fabricants et distributeurs des laits artificiel ainsi que leur influence sur les responsables des établissements qui fournissent des services de maternité par la remise des dons de laits artificiels. Les participants ont sollicite l'intervention du Ministre de la Sante sur ce phénomène.
Une instruction interdisant les affiches de la société laitière et des substituts de lait maternel devrait également être donnée aux responsables des structures sanitaires.
Il a été propose d'intégrer le volet de l'allaitement maternel dans les programmes scolaires pour la sensibilisation des jeunes filles. Pour I' amélioration du volet communication, des propositions doivent être faites auprès de nos partenaires (UNICEF, HKI,...) afin qu'ils mettent d'autres supports a la disposition des associations.
Le Président de séance est revenu sur les facteurs qui font régresser l'allaitement maternel à savoir:
• l'influence des medias et des coutumes. II a indiqué qu'il est nécessaire d'informer et de sensibiliser Ie public sur la pratique de l'allaitement maternel exclusif qui doit être introduite le plus tôt possible.
Présentations des Plans d’Action des Associations
Deux associations ont présenté leur plan d'action. II s'agit de l’AJPEC et Cameroon Link. Cette dernière a produit deux films vidéo sur l'allaitement maternel et sollicite un appui du Ministère de la sante pour la reproduction afin qu'ils puissent être a la disposition de toutes les associations.
Le président de séance a recommandé aux Associations d’avoir des messages concis et qui accrochent tout en tenant compte des dix conditions. Les associations doivent automatiquement avoir un point d’encrage qui est le district de sante.
Divers
Des questions relatives a la reproduction du film ont été abordées. Une autocritique du film sur le fond et la forme sera faite par les responsables du Ministère de la Sante.
Une participante a voulu savoir l’appui que pourrait apporter le Ministère de la Sante en faveur des Associations pendant la SMAM. Sur ce point, Ie président de séance a précisé que Celle des associations qui sollicitent l’appui du Ministère de la Sante devrait déposer a la DCOOP un dossier bien ficelé et comprenant un plan d’action et un programme.
Cette réunion permettra de préciser le niveau de réalisation des activités et de s’accorder sur le jour de lancement et le lieu.
La Liste des Participants
1. Dr. Takou Virginie – HGOPY Ngousou
2. Eben Mado – HGOPY Ngousou
3. Fongang K. Luc – Step Ministry Yaounde
4. James Achanyi- Fontem, Cameroon Link Douala
5. Yvonne Bekeny – Cameroon Link Douala
6. Andela Elisabeth – AFFE Mbalmayo
7. Ngo Poha Priscille Sabine – Ahead Biyem Assi
8. Etong Jeanne – NOLFOWOP
9. Louis Amagnia Ndémé – Maléo Santé Plus
10. Messe Suzanne – Alternative Santé
11. Ngale Judith – GICOMDEF
12. Ossombe Marie Claire – CASAMAC Ebolowa
13. Nfong Yvette Marie Delphine – Assistance Action
14. Mouto Priscille - COGESID Bonamikano
15. Tsenou Martine Yolande – AFEYMEK WATAMONOMO
16. Melingui Rosalie - AFEYMEK WATAMONOMO
17. Dr. Mbah Joan née Ebong Ngole – Foundation Mbororo Batibo, NW Region
18. Dr. Jeanne Ejigui – UNICEF Cameroun Yaoundé
19. Joseph Ngon à Keedi – CIFAS
20. Nyassa Marie Juliette – UFFATMC
21. Mary Neh Ngwa – COGESID Mambanda
22. Samuel Mbah – COGESID Mambanda
23. Zoa Catherine – CAMNAFAW Yaoundé
24. Molo Ngono Jeannette – HGOPY Ngousou
25. Lissouck Marie Germaine – NOLFOWOP
26. Tata Japhet Ngol – DPS/MINSANTE
27. Chi Jacqueline- Caring For Women (CAFOW)
28. Makendi Theodore - Atrapracam
29. Ngo Mbogba Désirée – Atrapracam
30. Baleng Joanny – Atrapracam
31. Ngo Béa Elisabeth – Atrapracam
32. Djoky Deampess – Atrapracam
33. Tematio Josephine – Ahead Biyem Assi
34. Kangue Koum Henry – CBNCA/DPS/MINSANTE
35. Ntonga André Aggée – Helen Kelly International
36. Zintsem Marie – CIFAS
37. Mme Mbassi - ISSR Yaounde
38. Aboubakar Mgbekoum – ASS. Journalistes de la Presse Ecrite du Cameroun
39. Ngoudzo Mabah Martine – Vine Yard Cameroun
40. Fokoua Meffoh – ASSOCASFIASAR Yaounde
41. Numfo Beris - Nka'ah Women Bamenda
42. Mbeng Akomba – CBD/MINSANTE Yaoundé
43. Okala Georges – S/DAN/MINSANTE Yaoundé

Prof. Anwar Fazal, WABA's Chairperson Emeritus Honoured

Professor Dato Anwar Fazal has been honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award. WABA Men’s Working Group extends their “Congratulations” to Professor Dato’ Anwar Fazal, for his great achievements. The Chairperson Emeritus of World Alliance of Breastfeeding Action (WABA), is the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award Winner by the Consumers International and the Federation of Malaysians Consumers Association. This was on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary celebration of Consumers International. He was described during the occasion as 'the most influential figure in the history of the international consumer movement'. The Award was presented to him by Kenyan consumer activist Samuel Ochieng, the current President, of Consumers International. Anwar is also currently the Director of the Right Livelihood College, based at the Centre of Policy Research and International Studies (CenPRIS), Universiti Sains Malaysia. The Men’s Working Group is very proud to have Prof. Anwar Fazal as its WABA torch light.

Susan Siew Quits WABA’s Co-Directorship

Source:WABA Secretariat
www.waba.org.my
WABA Secretariat organised a farewell event for Susan Siew following her resignation after Co-Directorship for 15 years. She resigned from WABA as of 1 June 2010 to enjoy the 3Rs of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. A formal handover ceremony had been conducted on Tuesday 25th May, 2010 in the presence of Dato Anwar Fazal, WABA's Chairperson Emeritus and coordinators of the WABA Local Governance Task Force. This was followed by staff organised farewell dinner party. The WABA Men’s Working Group wishes Susan all the best in her future undertakings and knowing that she will always be part of the breastfeeding movement. The WABA Secretariat will now be led by Sarah Amin as Executive Director.
In a message from the Chairperson of the steering Committee, Dr. Felicity Savage, on the 18th May 2010, she observed that She had been with WABA for 15 years, from its early years, and has worked extremely hard with fellow Director, Sarah Amin, to build the organisation up and to make it what it is. Susan brought important expertise and experience from her previous work, particularly with the global consumer, environmental and health movement, and led WABA’s advocacy and organising work with great skill and insight. Susan Siew was instrumental in the organization of past two highly successful WABA Global Forums.
Susan also brought to WABA her special communication design expertise from her work with renowned publishing and design firms in Toronto and New York prior to joining the global breastfeeding promotion, protection and support movement. . She designed and art-directed a group of young designers who produced WABA publications and key campaign materials particularly World Breastfeeding Week.
After 15 years of devoted service to WABA, Susan changed direction and is now looking for a new life path. In Dr. Felicity Savage, “We are confident that she has left WABA strong and well prepared to continue into the future, and our ongoing achievements will owe much to her legacy and high standards.” The Mén’s Working Group joins WABA Steering Committee in wishing Susan well as she looks forward to a period of well deserved rest and recreation, to continued friendship, and new possibilities opening up for her in future. WABA Secretariat

Global Breastfeeding Partners’ Forum 2010

By James Achanyi-Fontem
Coordinator
WABA Men's Initiative
camlink99@gmail.com
From 17 – 20 October 2010, Bayview Beach Resort in Penang, Malaysia will host a global forum allowing for greater networking among WABA participants
and the Core Partner organisations – ABM, IBFAN, ILCA, LLLI and Wellstart International. Participants will revisit and celebrate Innocenti Declaration’s 20 years, under the theme “Enabling Mothering: Keeping mothers and babies together” from the 16th – 20th October, 2010. The announcement released by WABA Secretariat says the Global Breastfeeding Partners Forum (GBP Forum 2010) is to include a partners’ technical forum to be organised with the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation (SIDA). It is the first time WABA is organising a GBP Forum open to participation of the wider network allowing for greater networking among participants and the Core Partner Organisations – ABM, IBFAN, ILCA, LLLI and Wellstart International. The objectives of the WABA 2010 event are:
♥ To foster greater collaboration with WABA’s Core Partners and other participants to plan and advance the common vision and strategic direction of the breastfeeding movement
♥ To share new technical knowledge and programmatic updates in the areas of the expanded BFHI and Maternity Protection.
♥ To celebrate the Innocenti 20 years through creative and other means.
♥ To work towards World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) 2011
The three day event draws on elements of the WABA Global Forum III event originally planned for Quebec City in June 2010, the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) campaigns past and present, the World Breastfeeding Trends initiative (WBTi) and others.

Farewell Viola Lennon and Kathy Baker

By James Achanyi-Fontem,
Coordinator, WABA Men's Initiative
It is with deep regret that WABA MWG learnt about the passing away of Viola Lennon and Kathy Baker of La Leche League International. Mother Viola Lennon was Co-Founder of La Leche League International and co-author of the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding passed away on Friday, 22nd January, 2010. Kathy Baker, a certified Lactation Consultant, LLL Leader for more than 30 years and training administrator the LLLI Peer Counsellor programme passed away peacefully on Thursday 27 May, 2010. Members of WABA MWG extend their hearty deep sympathies to the entire families and friends of Viola Lennon and Kathy Baker. May their souls rest in peace!

Expanded Global Breastfeeding Partners’ Meeting (GBPM)

From 17 – 19 October 2010 at Bayview Beach Resort in Penang, Malaysia
A wider network allowing for greater networking among WABA participants
and the Core Partner organisations – ABM, IBFAN, ILCA, LLLI and Wellstart International will be revisiting and celebrating Innocenti 20 years, under the theme “Enabling Mothering: Keeping mothers and babies together” from the 16th – 19th October,2010.
The announcement was released by WABA Co-Directors, Susan Siew and Sarah Amin. The Global Breastfeeding Partners Meeting (GBPM 2010)will include a partners’ technical forum to be organised with the support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation(SIDA).
It is the first time WABA is organising an expanded GBPM open to participation of the wider network allowing for greater networking among participants and the Core Partner Organisations – ABM, IBFAN, ILCA, LLLI and Wellstart International.
In line with the 20th anniversary of the Innocenti Declaration, the event will open with a celebration of 20 years of action and achievements around the Innocenti as well as reviewing the gaps and areas still needing attention and a strategic response.
The two-day technical meeting/forum on the topic “Enabling Mothering: Keeping Mothers and Babies together,” focusing on the expanded BFHI and Maternity Protection and support for working women will be followed by a business meeting of the Core Partners on the 20th October 2010. This last day event will be by invitation only.
The objectives of the WABA 2010 event are:
♥ To foster greater collaboration with WABA’s Core Partners and other participants to plan and advance the common vision and strategic direction of the breastfeeding movement
♥ To share new technical knowledge and programmatic updates in the areas of the expanded BFHI and Maternity Protection
♥ To celebrate the Innocenti 20 years through creative and other means
♥ To work towards World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) 2011
The three day event draws on elements of the WABA Global Forum III event originally planned for Quebec City in June 2010, the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) campaigns past and present, the World Breastfeeding Trends initiative (WBTi) and others.
Participants will have plenary and workshop sessions as well as exhibition and other open spaces for the creative arts and celebration!
All WABA friends will take advantage of the space to share their work, resources and creativity. WABA`Co-Directors, Susan and Sarah, are looking at the event as a mother-father/family friendly event!

FECABPA Holds 5th Ordinary General Assembly in Yaounde

By Martine Yolande Tsenou,
AFEIMEK Yaoundé
The 5th Ordinary General Meeting of the Federation of Cameroon Breastfeeding Promotion Associations, FECABPA, held in Yaoundé on the 23rd January 2010. Attended by some 20 representatives of member organisations of the federation, activities in 2009 were reviewed and discussions centred on the plan of action for 2010.
In the annual orientation speech, the National President of FECABPA, James Achanyi-Fontem, started by wishing all a “Happy and Prosperous New Year 2010”, adding that since the creation of the Cameroon national nutrition networking exchange coalition for the promotion of infant and young child feeding on the 14th September 2007, the vision of the organisation has remained the same.
He recalled to members of FECABPA that the vision is to protect, promote and support mothers to breastfeed their babies and feed infants adequately as a right to food, affection and tenderness as the guarantee for good health and well being.
He invited FECABPA members to continue to use the different techniques and strategies taught them during the training at Obala in 2008 for social mobilisation within the context of the expansion of recommendations of the World Health Assembly, World Health Organisation and UNICEF. He announced that WHO published new HIV recommendations to improve health, reduce infections and save lives during the last World AIDS Day 2009. He is the role of health associations to inform communities of the new recommendations published on a good number of health web sites already.
The National President of FECABPA, James Achanyi-Fontem, talked about how to design local action plans within the context of pertinent declarations of the United Nations Organisation and the objectives of the Millennium Development Goals. He invited all organisations to work in close collaboration with health districts in the regions starting from their health areas of locations.
He revealed that the theme for the World Breastfeeding Week 2010 is centred on the ten conditions for successful breastfeeding and that this is visible through the 15 key indicators of the World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative, WBTi that is considered to facilitate the closure of gaps where little is done in any given country.
Zimbabwe and Cameroon benefitted from the WBTi training in 2009, and the role of those who received the training is to transfer the monitoring and evaluation techniques to other organisations and their colleagues in their countries, who were not opportune.
All trainers in Cameroon agreed that regular monitoring and evaluation could help to identify gaps and close them during planned activities. Speaking on international network planned activities, the National President of FECABPA who doubles as the Coordinator of WABA Men’s Working Group and Focal Point for IBFAN Cameroon informed members that the 8th Conference of IBFAN Africa has been scheduled in the month of September 2010 in Mauritius Island and that members should start scouting funds for their travel, accommodation and meals. The theme of the conference has been announced as, “Breastfeeding, Child Survival and the Role of Infant and Young Child Feeding”.
The Coordinator of Men’s Initiative made it known that Sarah Amin and Susan Siew, who are WABA Co-Directors have also announced some key events following the WABA Steering Committee Meeting held in October 2009. These events have been slated towards the end of 2010, starting with WABA Global Breastfeeding Partners’ Meeting (GBPM) from 17th to 19th October 2010 and the theme for the meeting is "Enabling Mothering: Keeping Mothers and Babies together". The GBPM proper takes place on the 20th October 2010. This will be followed by WABA Steering Committee Meeting from 22nd to 24th October 2010.
On the other hand, the International Coordinator of the World Breastfeeding Week, Julianna Lim Abdullah reported from WABA Secretariat that WBW celebrants in 2009 were from over 170 countries and that more than 500 events took place globally involving more than 800,000 celebrants. The 2009 WBW was described as the greatest outreach event in its history.
With this, Julianna Lim said, WABA is pleased to announce the theme/slogan for WBW 2010 which was decided by the WABA Steering Committee at its October 2009 meeting. The Slogan for WBW 2010 is “Breastfeeding - Just 10 Steps! The Baby-Friendly Way.”
The Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute, led by Miriam Labbok was appointed Key Writer for the WBW 2010 Calendar Announcement and Action Folder. Miriam Labbok and her team will work with the WABA Health Care Practices Task Force, Mother Support Task Force and BFHI Working Group.
In an earlier welcome address by the Secretary General of FECABPA, Suzanne Messe, she made a run down of achievements in a balance sheet that showed that the promotion, protection and support of lactating mothers in Cameroon was on a good foot and that exclusive breastfeeding rate for the first six months is on the increase, especially as member organisations now work regularly to protect rights of mothers and babies to adequate nutrition.
ASSF Bonaberi and NOLFOWOP Yaoundé hosted the two ordinary sessions of March 24 and July 9 respectively in 2009. The sessions focused attention on the best strategies to promote mothers’ and fathers’ support groups with the introduction of the Men’s Initiative as an integral part of infant and young child feeding in Cameroon.
Suzanne Messe lauded the technical and material support from WABA, IBFAN, UNICEF and the Ministry of Public health which led to the expansion of activities within communities. The infant and young child feeding groups benefited from international collaboration during the working visits of Dr. Neal Rosenburg and Professor Donna Taliaferro of Washington Nursing College, who researched on HIV stigmatisation amongst health workers in Cameroon. Tobias Zick of the German Neon Magazine visited Cameroon to support Cameroon Link’s action for prevention of violations of the international and national code on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes within health facilities.
In November 2009, Cameroon Link facilitated the organisation of the World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative training for Cameroon in Douala by the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN Africa) consultant, Pauline Kisanga. During the ordinary general meeting of FECABPA in Yaoundé, members took the following resolutions that:
1. Apart from the World Breastfeeding Week celebrated from the 1st – 7th August, the federation’s member organisations would get involve in other calendar events recognised and planned by the government through the ministry of public health, including International Day to fight against cancer on 4th February, International Women’s Day on 8th March, World Health Day on 7th April, African Day for the Reduction of Maternal and Neonatal mortality, Mother and Infant Health and Nutrition Action week in June, International Day of the African Child on 16th June, World Population Day on 11th July, World Food day on 16th October, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25th November and the National and World AIDS Week from 1st – 7th December each year.
2. A theme will be selected for an expose and learning exchange each time the federation holds a quarterly planned ordinary session within the year.
3. Member organisations should be up to date in the payment of their annual dues by June 15 each year to qualify for participation in exchange meetings or benefit from any capacity building training or subventions from the federation. Only active up-to-date members will have access to information on the federation’s account.
4. Inactive members of the Administrative Board would be replaced once it is brought to the knowledge of participants during general meetings. Long term vacancies of some board members were blamed for the non execution of some planned activities of FECABPA.
5. It was agreed that members residing in Yaoundé and neighbouring cities or regions will open and manage a bank account of the Federation, while the group in Douala will run a similar bank account for acceleration of activities covering the Littoral, South West, West regions. It was observed that this decentralisation will help in outreach advocacy in favour of infants and mothers’ rights. The bank account number of FECABPA at Credit Communautaire d’Afrique in Douala is 27-2707367-001-1.
6. It was finally agreed that the Saturday, 24th April 2009 Ordinary General Meeting will be hosted by the Women’s Gender Council (COGESID) Bonamikano and that on Saturday, 17th July 2009, AFFE Mbalmayo will host all member organisations of FECABPA ahead of the joint national launching of the World Breastfeeding Week in Cameroon on the 1st August by the Minister of Public Health.
Participants at the 5th Ordinary General Assembly of the Federation of Cameroon Breastfeeding Promotion Associations, FECABPA, came from COGESID Bonamikano, Maleo Santé Plus, NOLFOWOP, Cameroon Link, Vine Yard Movement, Alternative Santé, AFFE Mbalmayo, Ahead Biyem Assi, AFEIMEK, Fine Forest Foundation Cameroon and ASSOCASFIASAR Yaoundé.
Fine Forest Foundation Cameroon and ASSOCASFIASAR (Midwives & Nurses Association) representatives attended the national meeting for their first time and decided to be affiliated to the federation by paying their dues.

WABA’s GBPM Farewell Party 2008

BUILDING BRIDGES DURING RELAXATION
By Lakshmi Menon
WABA organised a farewell party for all GBPM participants on the last day of the meeting at WABA office. Participants were ferried by bus to WABA office in torrential rain, which had erupted suddenly. Fortunately the strongly erected shamiana in the house compound, provided a good shield against the rain. Guests, including friends and well wishers of WABA, were shown around the office and invited to have the delicious Penang food. We were also treated to Penang’s famous hawker food, prepared by efficient chefs while we waited; some worth mentioning included, unforgettable Laksa (a rather strong noodle soup with fish and prawn paste, onions and pineapple pieces), Char Koey Teao (flat rice noodles fried with shrimps, chicken, eggs, greens and cockles), Ice Kachang (a fabulous dessert with a mix of ice shavings, syrups, beans, nuts, jelly topped with ice cream).
A huge cake in the shape of number 80 to mark Michael Latham’s 80th birthday was brought out to be cut by him. The felicitation of Michael for his contribution to WABA and to the breastfeeding movement touched us all, and quite a few of us were also in awe of Michael’s achievements. And so there was more food, rich food!!! The celebrations continued at another level – the cultural level, even as people could not resist the irresistible food.
Earlier in the day, Audrey Naylor had called for a cultural event “WABA has Talent”.
None of us could have imagined during the past few hectic days of fierce discussions, that there was so much hidden talent amongst us. What we witnessed made us wonder at the creativity and talent which was displayed, which also had us laughing, with many of us in splits.
Clowning around: Two clowns emerged on the scene complete with painted smiles and red noses. Audrey and Sarah hopped about and frisked around making people laugh (and also cry, when tears poured out during hysterical laughter). They handed out colourful waving hands (made of cardboard) so we could “aye” or “nay” when called upon for our opinion of a particular performance.
Judging talent: Judges were appointed to judge the talented. Felicity, Mahmuda Fazal, Nand and Nozipo were nominated judges. Each one gave her/his opinion after each presentation and asked the opinion of the audience. The audience was not in the least reticent. They lustily cheered every actor and waved the colourful hands heartily after every performance.
Songs by little ones and oldies: First, Julianna’s children -10-year-old Shanelle and 7-year-old Shane sang a charming duet. Dr Raj Anand shared his experience with his young patients in his clinic and how he sang to them to dispel their fears and doubts.
The Gender-sensitive Play: Amal and Lakshmi organised a 3-act play on gender sensitiveness. The first scene was at the gynecologist’s when the loving husband and timid wife (played by Marcos Arana and Sita Letchumi) visited a gynecologist (played by Patti Rundal -) for a routine check up. The Dr spoke to the husband about his wife’s condition as if she did not exist. The wife’s attempts to clarify her doubts were brushed away by the solicitous husband who felt she would not understand what the doctor said. The second scene was in the home of a dominating man (played by Dr Prashant Gangal) and his not so timid wife (played by Ali McLaine). The husband was telling his pregnant wife to stop working and take care of their little son and the home, and of course the new born when it arrived. The woman refused to quit her job and said she would be able to cope if he gave up hanging out with his friends or playing cricket on weekends and spent more time in the house, sharing housework and childcare. The third scene was in the factory, where a worker was telling her boss that she was pregnant and wanted information about her maternity entitlements. The boss pointed out that at the time of hiring; she had said she would not be having children. When the worker demanded her rights, the boss offered her two months leave as a favour and instructed her not to inform other workers. The role play was unusual because of reverse roles assumed - Ines Fernandes played the bully boss and James Achanyi took the role of the pregnant female worker (I specify female as even males get pregnant these days). The performance by all actors was simply brilliant.
The Great Canadian Ice Hockey: The Canadian GBPM participants (Betty, Carole, Elaine, Johanna, Lucie & Lucie and Penny) presented us with a game of ice hockey. The two teams were the Canadians representing the Code, WBW and partners such as ILCA, WABA, IBFAN, the Global Strategy against the team representing Multinational companies (MNCs) - Nestle, Gerber, Avent etc. Each player on the MNCs team represented one of these companies. The strategy was to use the key players of those fighting for implementation of the Code and the different WHA resolutions on the side of Canada and the MNCs were all those violating the Code. The referee was meant to be the neutral “United Nations” but there were comments about whether they had been influenced by the multinationals, and finally the refree was selected from a “neutral” country, Egypt. The team used hockey sticks and a puck (a metal disc). The group used hockey terms such as Nestlé getting the first penalty for high sticking and giving the Canadians a penalty shot.  The key player for the penalty shot was the IYCF resolution WHA 61.20 and they scored just before the end of the first half.  At the beginning of the second half, the MNCs brought in their big guys and we saw "follow-up milks" and "RUTF's" on the ice.  The Canadians used their best player "INFACT CANADA" and got a break away to score again and give Canada the win over the multinationals. The game moved at such terrific speed that the spectators were at their wits ended not being able to follow the game. It hardly mattered because it was such fun that we all laughed till we developed a stitch in our sides. It was much later when I tried to find out more about show that I found many of the players themselves had little inkling. Finally managed to get the full details from Carole. How about a WABA Ice Hockey League for the 3rd Global Forum?? Those interested should sign up for the teams and start practising before the final game at Quebec in 2010.
The Drums of Africa: the grand finale was of course the drummers from Africa. James and Nomajoni drummed in accompaniment to the throbbing African music. Fellow Africans, Veronica, Lourdes, Amanda, Joyce and Margaret swung their massive hips to the music and swayed rhythmically. The music was so mesmerizing that it brought everyone to their floor as they all fell under the spell of the music. Who after all could resist such fabulous rhythmic music? Michael Latham, who has his roots in Tanzania, was the first to spring to his feet and he too swayed his slight hips while Felicity joined in the dance. Susan, Ali, and others who were energetically inclined too entered into the fray - by now the dance floor resembled and sounded more like a war zone as the dancers scampered about with whoops of joy. As the night advanced the tempo of the drums increased, so also probably the neighbours’ temper.
We may have been to many such parties in the past, but this one will surely linger in our minds for monthsand years on end. It was so memorable that this time, the GBPM Farewell party had to be documented.