Zubair Qureshi
The Federal Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHSR&C), in collaboration with Save the Children International and UNICEF Pakistan, hosted a pivotal session with media professionals to promote breastfeeding practices and discourage the use of breast-milk substitutes.
The event brought together a diverse group of media professionals from print, electronic, and online platforms, along with public health experts, civil society members, students, and the general public. Notable attendees included representatives from UNICEF Pakistan, the Health Services Academy, and Save the Children International. The session featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Aligned with this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Closing the Gap – Breastfeeding Support for All” the event focused on addressing the critical issue of malnutrition in Pakistan.
The speakers emphasized the key role of maternal nutrition and breastfeeding as key components in addressing malnutrition.
Chief of Nutrition at UNICEF Pakistan, Anteneh G. Minas emphasized the pivotal role media plays in promoting optimal nutrition behaviours, particularly breastfeeding within communities.
He stated, “Media plays a crucial role in promoting optimal nutrition behaviours, particularly breastfeeding within communities.” He further underscored, “It is essential that the media continues to support and strengthen UNICEF’s advocacy efforts concerning breast-milk substitutes, with a focus on enforcing the Breast-milk Substitutes Acts.”
Prof DrShahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy said, “Breastfeeding is crucial for a child’s health and well-being. At the Health Services Academy, we are dedicated to promoting breastfeeding to enhance health outcomes for both mothers and children, ultimately contributing to a healthier society.”
RazaQazi, Director ACCM at Save the Children International, added that breastfeeding was a great equalizer in our society, ensuring every child has a healthy start in life. However, inequities in breastfeeding, driven by factors such as community and family dynamics, remain a challenge. Save the Children is committed to providing every child with the necessary support and opportunities through global awareness and action.”
