UNICEF, C/River reaffirm commitment to breastfeeding

The United Nations Children’s Fund and the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency have reiterated that the ten steps to successful breastfeeding are maternity practices proven to support the successful achievement of exclusive breastfeeding.

The Director-General of CRPHCDA, Dr Vivien Mesembe Otu, called on employers in both sectors to foster a supportive environment that enables breastfeeding mothers to care for their infants.

She acknowledged the significant challenges working mothers face in exclusively breastfeeding, but expressed optimism that supportive employer policies could help address these issues.

She said, “We aim to enhance breastfeeding rates in the state. Please assist us in providing proper counselling and raising awareness about exclusive breastfeeding, which is crucial for addressing malnutrition in a cost-effective manner. We seek collaboration to improve healthcare delivery and promote exclusive breastfeeding.”

Additionally, Dr Joan Ikobah, from the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Cross River Teaching Hospital, discussed the ‘Zero Water Campaign,’ aligning with the Global Breastfeeding Collective’s mission to boost global investment and policy changes for breastfeeding advocacy.

She warned against giving water, liquids, or solid foods to infants before six months, highlighting the risks of contaminated fluids and malnutrition, while noting that breast milk itself is primarily composed of water.

The Cross River State Nutrition Officer, Dr Winifred Ogar, reinforced that adhering to the ‘Ten Steps’ could boost breastfeeding rates by 50 per cent in 2025.