Assessment of Status of Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Practice, Policy and Programs: Achievements and Gaps, in Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives:  ·   To find achievements and gaps in the existing policy, program and practices in reference to   Infant and Young Child Feeding in Ethiopia. ·   To build a consensus among all partners on the way forward to improve the existing IYCF practice. Methods: National publications, guidelines and reports were collected and assessed based on the 15 indicators modified by International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) to identify the current situations in the country in reference to the infant and young child feeding policy, program and practices.  Participants from government and non-government reviewed and compiled the report. There was an elaborate discussion on each indicator before consensus was reached. The document was also validated by participants from different organizations on February 13, 2013. Results: In this assessment gaps were identified and recommendations were also forwarded. The main gaps include the absence of National Code of Marketing of Breast milk Substitutes and Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, Idequate maternity leave conditions , lack of knowledge and experience by mothers about optimal complementary feeding practiceand the risk of bottle feeding. Conclusions: Key recommendations are the need of Implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative and the International Code of Marketing of Breast milk Substitutes and capacitating of ealth workers in giving IYCF support skills for mothers. There is the needto review labour regulations s. This calls for the attention of policy makers and partners to promote optimal breastfeeding for the well being of infants and children in the country.