Ministry of Health, UNICEF advocate for breastfeeding support during World Breastfeeding Week

SOUTH SUDAN – As the world commemorates World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 7, the Ministry of Health and UNICEF urge policymakers to address inequalities and ensure that breastfeeding support is widely available.

This year’s theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” highlights the importance of universal access to breastfeeding resources.

In Juba, South Sudan’s Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng emphasized that mother’s milk is crucial for giving babies a healthy start. She urged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their newborns for the first six months to ensure their healthy development.

“We have laws in South Sudan to protect mothers, but those laws must be implemented. The health, social, and economic benefits of breastfeeding for both child and mother have been established globally,” said Deng.

“When you breastfeed, it helps you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Most women who breastfeed exclusively for the first six months are very healthy.”

UNICEF Representative in South Sudan, Hamida Lasseko, reiterated the vital role of breastfeeding in strengthening a baby’s immune system.

“Breastfeeding contributes to developing and strengthening the baby’s immune system. However, most importantly, it provides psychological support,” Lasseko added.

She noted that the eye contact between a mother and her baby during breastfeeding leaves a lifelong impression.

WHO Representative Dr. Humphrey Karamagi acknowledged the significant nutrition challenges in South Sudan, noting that while a lot of progress has been made in the country, there is still a long way to go.

“We need to double our efforts to improve this situation. Nutrition remains a huge challenge in South Sudan,” Karamagi said.

According to experts, breastmilk is a nutritional powerhouse, providing all essential nutrients for the first six months to two years of an infant’s life.

South Sudan has made commendable progress over the past decade. Exclusive breastfeeding rates for children under six months have increased from 45% in 2010 to 60% in 2023.

However, four out of every ten newborns still need to take advantage of the right to a healthy start with appropriate first food.

“Universal implementation of the baby-friendly hospital initiative is essential to support early and continued breastfeeding for all babies. Scaling up breastfeeding support, especially focusing on vulnerable populations, will help close the gaps in breastfeeding rates,” Undersecretary for Health, Hon. Dr. Harriet Pasquel said.

To reach the 2027 national target of 80% of children being exclusively breastfed, society must address the barriers women face to breastfeeding exclusively.

Providing supportive workplaces is a crucial factor for success. UNICEF calls for improved policies that support breastfeeding in the workplace, such as extending paid maternity leave to 18 weeks in line with global standards.

“UNICEF calls for increased funds to prevent malnutrition in South Sudan. Lactating mothers should receive appropriate breastfeeding breaks, work-site facilities, and support. Making these policies work for mothers worldwide will accelerate progress,” Lasseko added.