Nutrition and Health of Infants and Young Children

This study examines the issues surrounding the rationales and perceptions of breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices for children aged 0 to 24 months by mothers in the peri-urban social context of the Central African Republic, specifically in the municipality of Bimbo, located on the outskirts of Bangui, the country's political and economic capital. The idea for this study arose from the observation that households living on the outskirts of cities often do not share the same reasoning or perceptions regarding the nutrition and health of infants and young children as those living in the city center. This study is intended to be a sociological-rather than a medical-contribution aimed at highlighting the various determinants of food and nutritional security among mothers of children in peri-urban areas. The study focused specifically on the rationales and perceptions underlying the practices of mothers in Mbemb? and Mboko Elevage. We hope that the study's findings will enable readers to form a clear understanding of the issues raised.