World Breastfeeding Week – supporting mothers of babies born with cleft conditions
This World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7), Operation Smile is highlighting the importance of breastfeeding and the need to support mothers, especially those caring for infants with cleft conditions. Infants born with cleft conditions are 9 times more likely to die within their first year of life than other infants – and feeding challenges contribute significantly to this risk.
Another successful 3-day programme in Mbombela
From Friday 24 July to Sunday 26 July, more than 220 patients received specialist healthcare during a successful three-day programme at Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mbombela.
Delivered by Operation Smile South Africa, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Health, the programme combined life-changing cleft surgery with a free community dental initiative.
Mpumalanga families encouraged to come forward for free cleft surgery in Mbombela this July
If you, or a family member has a cleft lip and/or cleft palate – come to the Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mbombela on 24 July for health screening to assess your suitability to receive free surgery and comprehensive cleft care.
Delivered by Operation Smile South Africa, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Health, the programme will take place from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July 2026.
It’s still in our hands
Mandela Day (this coming Saturday) reminds us that we can all make a difference.
Whether we give of our time, our skills or our wealth, helping someone in need really is ‘in our hands’.
And right now, a child like Andile* needs our help. Yours and mine.