The Kaduna State Government has reiterated its dedication to promoting exclusive breastfeeding as a key strategy to reduce infant and child mortality across the state.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday to mark the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week, Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe emphasized the critical role of breastfeeding in providing essential nutrients and protecting children against common illnesses.
Dr. Balarabe highlighted a concerning decline in early breastfeeding initiation rates in Kaduna, which dropped from 35.9% to 13% according to the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. In response, she outlined the government’s comprehensive efforts to support breastfeeding mothers, including the deployment of qualified health workers, the provision of necessary vaccines, strengthening primary healthcare systems, and introducing initiatives such as six months of paid maternity leave, the creation of nutrition corners, and the establishment of crèches in government offices.
Acknowledging challenges like ignorance, hunger, poverty, and insecurity, Dr. Balarabe expressed confidence in overcoming these obstacles through collaborative efforts.
“Breast milk is a safe, clean, and nutrient-rich formula that safeguards babies against many common childhood diseases,” she said. “For the governor, reducing infant and child mortality is a priority, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and breast milk is a powerful tool in achieving this.”
She also underscored the importance of colostrum, the first milk produced by mothers, as a potent natural immune system booster, and encouraged new mothers to ensure their babies receive it immediately after birth.
Dr. Balarabe further praised Governor Uba Sani’s leadership in addressing regional insecurity, which she believes will soon improve conditions for families to better support breastfeeding mothers.
“Our human capital development initiatives will be in vain if our babies do not survive and thrive. Let’s unite to close the gap and support breastfeeding for all in Kaduna State,” she urged.
In conclusion, Dr. Balarabe stressed that breast milk is central to the nurturing and survival of newborns and called for collective action to enhance breastfeeding practices across the state.
