Prevalence and Determinants of Appropriate Complementary Feeding Practices Among Children Aged 6-23 Months in Popokabaka, DRC: A Cross-Sectional Study

Mukendi Tuakuilangane Clément, Twende Mukengeshay Patrick, Ntalaja Kabwayi Philippe, Luboya Mutwamba Joseph

Abstract


Background: Appropriate complementary feeding is critical for preventing malnutrition in children aged 6-23 months. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, optimal practices remain suboptimal, particularly in rural areas like Popokabaka (Kwango province), where local data are scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with appropriate complementary practices in this rural health zone.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from June to August 2025 among 338 mother-child pairs (children 6-23 months) selected via two-stage probability sampling in the Popokabaka health zone. Practices were assessed using WHO indicators: Minimum Dietary Diversity, Minimum Meal Frequency, and Minimum Consistency. Data on sociodemographics, economics, and maternal health service use were collected via structured questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed by anthropometry. Logistic regression identified independent factors.

Results: Only 12.1% (95% CI: 8.7-15.9%) of children received appropriate complementary feeding. The prevalence of Minimum Dietary Diversity, Minimum Meal Frequency, and Minimum Consistency was 24.3%, 56.2%, and 91.7%, respectively. Independent factors included: postnatal care (aOR=3.7; 95% CI: 1.6-8.9), maternal secondary education or higher (aOR=3.9; 95% CI: 1.4-11.2), high socioeconomic status (aOR=4.8; 95% CI: 1.4-18.3), ≥4 antenatal visits (aOR=3.0; 95% CI: 1.3-7.2), safe water access (aOR=2.6; 95% CI: 1.2-5.9), and child age 12-23 months (aOR=2.7; 95% CI: 1.1-6.8). Children with inadequate practices had significantly more underweight (25.1% vs. 7.3%, p=0.02).

Conclusion: Prevalence of appropriate complementary feeding in Popokabaka is alarmingly low. Practices are significantly influenced by maternal health service utilization, maternal education, socioeconomic conditions, and water access. These findings support integrated interventions strengthening the continuum of maternal care, women's education, household food security, and water access to improve child nutrition in this rural region.

Keywords


Complementary feeding; appropriate practices; children 6-23 months; determinants; Popokabaka.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.52155/ijpsat.v59.2.8602

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