The Ministry of Health of the Jubbaland State Government hosted a special event in Kismayo to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week, observed globally from August 1st to 8th each year. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and to encourage mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding practices.
The ceremony brought together key stakeholders including the Minister of Health, Ismaaciil Axmed Garas, other cabinet ministers, the Chairperson of the Social Affairs Committee in the Jubaland Parliament, MP Shire, Director General of the Ministry of Health, Maxamed Xuseen, ministry staff, representatives from international health organizations, religious leaders, the Jubaland Medical Association, civil society groups and other distinguished guests.
Speakers at the event emphasized the critical role of breastfeeding in child development, highlighting that breast milk contains complete nutrition essential for both physical and cognitive growth. They urged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their infants, noting that it significantly boosts immunity and lays a strong foundation for lifelong health.
In his closing remarks, Minister Garas expressed concern over the low rates of exclusive breastfeeding among Somali children, warning of its negative impact on their development. He stressed that this year’s campaign places special focus on increasing public awareness so that more Somali children can benefit from full breastfeeding during the crucial early months of life.
World Breastfeeding Week serves as a vital annual opportunity for global communities to unite in promoting breastfeeding. The campaign encourages mothers to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months and to continue alongside nutritious complementary foods until the child reaches two years of age.
