As the world celebrates World Breastfeeding Week from 1-7 August, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa takes this opportunity to dedicate the entire month of August to advocate for the promotion and protection of breastfeeding in the province. Breastfeeding plays a vital role in the survival, growth, and development of infants and young children, and this month-long campaign seeks to reinforce the commitment of the Department of Health (DOH) and UNICEF towards improving child nutrition and overall well-being,says Director General Health, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Shaukat Ali.
Addressing an event held here on Thursday, Dr. Shaukat said World Breastfeeding Week, initiated in 1992, has been celebrated globally to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and its impact on child health, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development. The Nutrition Cell of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the support of UNICEF, is leading the efforts to celebrate August as World Breastfeeding Month, he added.
Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this year’s theme focuses on healthcare systems, women and work, the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, community support, ecology, economy, science, education.