Chelimo Njoroge, a mother of two, has turned her abundant breast milk into a blessing for needy families.

With a freezer overflowing with over 180 litres of breast milk, she has chosen to donate it to those struggling with breastfeeding challenges.

Especially for babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Currently breastfeeding her five-and-a-half-month-old baby, Chelimo discovered her milk production exceeded her baby’s needs.

Instead of letting the excess go to waste, she shared it.

“My fridge is full, and I’ve even stored some milk at my sister’s house,” she shared.

Her milk donation journey began after her baby had trouble latching, and she was advised to pump milk. As she pumped more, her supply surged from 40 ml to an impressive 700 ml.

Recognizing her surplus could help other mothers, Chelimo began donating informally to her best friend, whose baby was just two months older.

But when she posted a video seeking formal donation channels, she was overwhelmed by the response.

Within an hour, she received 25 messages from parents in desperate need of milk, including fathers with babies in NICUs.

In Kenya, breast milk donation is still in its infancy, but Chelimo hopes to inspire change.

She dreams of a future where Kenya has breast milk banks, like those in the U.S. and South Africa, to ensure safe, pathogen-free milk for infants.

“I hope mothers like me can donate to those facing breastfeeding challenges. This practice is successful in other countries, and I believe we can achieve it here too,” she said.

Chelimo’s donations come at a critical time, as many families face difficulties like low milk supply or medical issues preventing breastfeeding.

Her milk is stored following strict safety guidelines, ensuring it’s safe for infants in need.

Dr. Brian Lesso of Marina Healthcare supports milk donation, noting that mothers with an oversupply often face breast engorgement or clogged milk ducts if they don’t express regularly.