International Development & ReliefFoundation of Canada

Published purpose

This project aims to improve maternal and child health by improving the understanding of safe breastfeeding practices in order to enable HIV-positive mothers to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The project targets the Lusaka district in Zambia, reaching over 1,500 HIV positive women. The project focuses on strengthening maternal and child health systems related to HIV/AIDS, improving food security for HIV-positive mothers, and fostering community mobilization and education. Activities include: promoting safe breastfeeding; developing food programs for families affected by HIV/AIDS; and training 300 health workers providing maternal and infant health care for families affected by HIV/AIDS. The International Development and Relief Foundation is working in partnership with the University of Zambia to implement this project. This project is part of Canada's Maternal, Newborn and Child Health commitment.