On 21 February 2024, under the leadership of both the Regional Service Centre in Entebbe (RSCE) and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) the first ever lactation station was inaugurated on the United Nations Campus in Entebbe.  The rooms were a collaborative effort of many stakeholders including engineering, medical, welfare, and the Women’s Focal Point Committee.

This dedicated facility consists of four rooms and has been thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and supportive space for new mothers and aims to facilitate the expression of milk for newborn babies while at work, allowing them to maintain feeding schedules that align with WHO guidelines.

Beyond the significant benefits to newborns, enabling the expression of milk also contributes to the well-being of mothers. It empowers them to sustain their productivity levels and facilitates a smooth transition from maternity leave to full duty.

Breast milk contains everything a baby needs for the first 6 months of life, adjusting its composition to meet the evolving needs of the infant, especially during the initial month.

Ms. Nalini Contreras, Deputy Director RSCE recounted a time, more than 20 years ago, when she, as a young mother, was unable to access the necessary facilities to support the expression of milk. She and her peers would devise creative alternatives to support each other ensuring privacy and promoting the dignity of mothers. Ms. Contreras noted that it was an honor for her to inaugurate such a facility which would benefit future generations.  “We believe that by providing such a supportive environment, we are fostering a workplace that prioritizes the health and well-being of our staff and their families.” said Ms. Contreras.

The Lactation Stations are furnished with comfortable seating and power sockets to provide privacy for the mothers and access to electricity for the breast pumps. The room is safe and clean and has a fridge and other appliances that the mothers need to safely express and store breast milk.

Access to the facility is open to all new mothers residing on the UN Campus in Entebbe and to visitors attending meetings and conferences at the Regional Training and Conference Centre (RTCC). There are a number of guidelines to facilitate access that have been shared with all staff.

Ms. Contreras also thanked MONUSCO Management, represented by Mr. Yuri Cherep, for providing the space for the facility and ensuring that the environment was safe through their Occupational Safety and Health focal points.