Déterminants de la pratique d’allaitement maternel exclusif chez les enfants âgés de moins de 6 mois dans le camp de réfugiés de Gasorwe-Kinama, au nord du Burundi

Abstract

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among children under six months of age is an essential public health intervention, particularly in the field of maternal and child nutrition in developing countries such as Burundi. Its practice remains influenced by several factors, especially in refugee camp settings. This study aimed to identify the determinants of exclusive breastfeeding practice among children under six months of age in the Gasorwe-Kinama refugee camp in Burundi. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to 30, 2026, in the Gasorwe-Kinama refugee camp among 95 mothers with children under six months of age. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. After obtaining informed consent, data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to the mothers/guardians and completed by the investigator through KoboCollect. Sample description and bivariate analysis using Odds Ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals were performed with Stata. Variables with a p-value < 0.20 in the bivariate analysis were included in the multivariate analysis. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding practice among children under six months of age in the Gasorwe-Kinama refugee camp. Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that secondary level of education (OR = 16.46; 95% CI: [2.15–125.66]), presence of illnesses during pregnancy (OR = 0.10; 95% CI: [0.01–0.54]), and receiving information on nutritional factors that enhance breast milk production (OR = 25.15; 95% CI: [3.86–163.72]) were significantly associated with the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers of infants under six months of age in the Gasorwe-Kinama refugee camp. Conclusion: Our study identified the main determinants associated with the practice of exclusive breastfeeding in the Gasorwe-Kinama refugee camp. The findings highlight the need to strengthen educational, nutritional, and health interventions targeting pregnant and breastfeeding women in order to improve the practice of exclusive breastfeeding, as well as the nutrition and health of children.