Sindh Launches World Breastfeeding Week, Strengthens Support for Maternal and Child Health
The Sindh government has marked the beginning of World Breastfeeding Week by reaffirming its commitment to promoting breastfeeding and strengthening measures that support the health and nutrition of mothers and young children.
The awareness campaign, which continues throughout August as Breastfeeding Month, focuses on encouraging healthy feeding practices and improving early childhood care across the province.
Government to Strengthen Enforcement of Existing Law
Sindh Health and Population Welfare Minister Azra Fazal Pechuho said the provincial government will continue enforcing the Sindh Protection and Promotion of Breast-feeding and Young Child Nutrition Act.
The law regulates the promotion and marketing of infant formula, breast milk substitutes and certain commercial complementary foods for young children. Officials said the aim is to support informed feeding practices and encourage breastfeeding in line with public health guidelines.
Expansion of Baby-Friendly Hospitals
The minister also announced the expansion of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative across tertiary, district and regional hospitals in Sindh.
Under the initiative, healthcare facilities encourage early breastfeeding after birth, support immediate skin-to-skin contact between mothers and newborns, and provide guidance to families on infant feeding practices.
Training for Healthcare Professionals
According to the provincial health department, more than 3,000 healthcare providers have received training in breastfeeding counselling, clinical lactation management and maternal nutrition to improve support services in public hospitals.
Health experts note that exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of appropriate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding, can contribute to healthy child growth and development.
UNICEF Supports Awareness Campaign
UNICEF is also supporting awareness activities during the campaign.
Representatives from the organization emphasized the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, families, communities and public institutions to create a supportive environment for breastfeeding and early childhood nutrition.
This year’s campaign highlights the role of breastfeeding in promoting child health, nutrition and long-term well-being while encouraging greater public awareness throughout the month of August.
