As World Breastfeeding Week is observed globally from August 1-7, stakeholders are being urged to intensify efforts in raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding for children, mothers, fathers, and communities. Advocates emphasize the need for conducive, child-friendly work environments, including dedicated nursing rooms, to support and encourage exclusive breastfeeding.
Barrister Abiodun Aribisala, Founder and CEO of the Aribisala Care Foundation, an international tax consultant, and a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marked the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week with a call for increased awareness and support for breastfeeding mothers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights breastfeeding as one of the most effective strategies to ensure child health and survival, noting that breast milk is the best source of essential nutrients for infants, crucial for their growth and development. The WHO also emphasizes that breast milk serves as a baby’s first vaccine, offering protection against many common childhood illnesses.
World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated annually in over 120 countries, aims to promote the numerous benefits of breastfeeding. Experts note that breastfed babies tend to have healthier weights as they grow and often score higher on IQ tests. Additionally, breast milk helps protect against allergies, infections, and obesity, while being easily digestible for infants.
Research further indicates that mothers who breastfeed are at a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, including breast cancer. Breastfeeding also aids mothers in returning to their pre-pregnancy weight and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
Stakeholders are therefore encouraged to create environments that make breastfeeding more convenient and enjoyable, ensuring that more women can experience the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding.
Barrister Abiodun Aribisala, in his speech during the celebration, emphasized the critical role that breastfeeding plays in shaping a healthy future generation. He pointed out that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice, but a public health priority that has the power to reduce infant mortality rates and improve long-term health outcomes. Aribisala called on both government and private sectors to implement policies that support breastfeeding mothers, including extended maternity leave and the establishment of breastfeeding-friendly facilities in workplaces.
He also highlighted the role of fathers and the broader community in supporting breastfeeding mothers. Aribisala noted that the success of breastfeeding often depends on the support system around the mother. Fathers, family members, and community leaders can contribute by creating an environment that encourages and normalizes breastfeeding, allowing mothers to feel confident and supported in their choice. He urged communities to educate men and families about the importance of their roles in the breastfeeding journey.
Additionally, Aribisala called for increased investment in public health campaigns to educate the public on the benefits of breastfeeding. He stressed that awareness and education are key to dispelling myths and misconceptions about breastfeeding. By investing in widespread campaigns, more families can be informed about the significant health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, leading to higher breastfeeding rates and healthier outcomes for both mothers and children across the country.
