Key Takeaways
- Sindh government launches World Breastfeeding Week with a renewed commitment.
- Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho pledges strict enforcement of infant formula ban.
- Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative expanded to support maternal and child health.
The Sindh government has launched World Breastfeeding Week, reaffirming its commitment to promoting exclusive breastfeeding and improving the overall health of mothers and infants. Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho emphasized the importance of breastfeeding in protecting newborns from severe illnesses.
Under the theme 'Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,' Sindh is taking proactive steps to enforce its law against the promotion of infant formula, breastmilk substitutes, and commercial complementary foods. The government aims to strengthen enforcement measures to ensure that unethical practices do not discourage mothers from breastfeeding.
Dr Pechuho highlighted the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, which has been expanded to include more healthcare facilities in Sindh. These hospitals will now provide support for mothers to start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and discourage unnecessary formula feeding. More than 3,000 healthcare providers have already received training in clinical lactation management and maternal nutrition.
The minister stated that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by timely introduction of safe and nutritious homemade complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding, is crucial for protecting children from severe diarrhea, pneumonia, and acute malnutrition. She also noted that optimal breastfeeding, along with routine immunization, remains one of the most effective ways to improve child survival and health.
Unicef has expressed its support for the campaign, calling breastfeeding a shared responsibility and a cornerstone of child survival, nutrition, and development. Prem Bahadur Chand, Unicef Sindh Chief of Field Office, emphasized the importance of investment in evidence-based policies and services to ensure every child receives the best possible start in life.
The government plans to work with healthcare professionals, civil society, media, and families to create an environment that supports successful breastfeeding. This includes advocacy, awareness campaigns, community engagement, and media activities throughout August across Pakistan.
