Ahead
of the annual World Breastfeeding Week, 1 - 7 August, stakeholders in The
Gambia have called a press briefing where it was emphasised that breastfeeding
is the foundation of a child survival.
The
forum was organised by the National Nutrient Agency (NaNA), UN System in The
Gambia, and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Friday at NaNA hall.
This
year’s theme is ‘Breastfeeding: A key to sustainable development’.
Speaking
on the occasion, NaNA executive director, Pa Modou Phaal, said The Gambia
started celebrating the breastfeeding week in 1993.
Mr
Phaal also encouraged every mother to adopt the culture of breastfeeding saying
it is the foundation of a child survival.
Delivering
a joint WHO/UNICEF statement, Alpha Jallow said breastfeeding is one of the
most cost effective ways to save and improve the lives of children everywhere
as it has lifelong health benefits for infants and their mothers.
“It
is clear that breastfeeding is not only the cornerstone of children’s healthy
development, it is also foundation of a country’s development,” he said. “In fact, supporting breastfeeding is one of
the smartest investments countries can make in the wellbeing of their
citizens.”
Mr
Jallow cited the Lancet Breastfeeding Series as saying improving breastfeeding
practices makes the world healthier, smarter, and more equal.
He
said there are well-established evidences that underscored the links between
investing in breastfeeding and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,
particularly goal 2 and 3.
Breastfeeding
is also one of the key to reducing under-five mortality, Jallow said, adding
that the health benefits associated with optimal breastfeeding could save
billions of dollars in healthcare expenses each year by greatly reducing
hospital admissions for infectious diseases.
