We are thrilled to announce that the SAMAS program in Romania has won the ARBORUS GEEIS Trophy 2025 for its long-term impact on maternal and infant health, and the professional empowerment of women in the healthcare sector.
Developed in response to critical maternal and infant health challenges in Romania, SAMAS has grown into an independent and self-sustaining NGO, the first and only national network of perinatal educators, that promotes breastfeeding, strengthens perinatal care, and supports health professionals, most of whom are women.
👩‍⚕️ Since its launch in 2013:
• 2,460 nurses and midwives have been trained and certified as perinatal educators
• Exclusive breastfeeding rates during the first six months increased from 12.6% in 2011 to 29.8% in 2016.
• 69% of Romanian mothers have been reached through education, guidance and public health campaigns
🤝 A big thank you to our partners who made this possible: Asociatia SAMAS – SAnatate pentru MAme si Sugari, Fundatia Crucea Alba, Crucea Rosie Romana, Nutricia, IOMC and the Romanian Ministry of Health.