Godwin Isenyo As part of measures to reduce infant and child mortality in the state, the Kaduna State Government on Thursday reiterates its commitment to promoting exclusive breastfeeding among mothers. The state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, disclosed this while addressing newsmen to mark the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in the state.
Balarabe emphasised the importance of breastfeeding in providing essential nutrients and protection against common childhood illnesses. She noted that despite a decline in early initiation of breastfeeding in the state, from 35.9% to 13% according to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2021, the government was taking concrete steps to support breastfeeding mothers.
These initiatives, she added, include providing qualified health providers, offering necessary vaccines, strengthening primary health care structures, approving a six-month paid maternity leave, establishing nutrition corners, and setting up crèches in government offices. Balarabe acknowledged challenges such as ignorance, hunger, poverty, and insecurity but expressed optimism in addressing these issues through collective efforts. She said, “Breast milk provides a safe, clean, and nutrient-filled formula that protects babies against many common childhood illnesses.
“For the governor, it is important to reduce infant and child mortality as targeted by the Sustainable Development Goals, using the power of breast milk. “Colostrum, the first milk that a mother prod.