Ghana Health Service Collaborates With WHO And UNICEF To Advocate For Improved Breastfeeding Environments

The Ghana Health Service (GHS), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, recently convened an advocacy meeting to advance breastfeeding-friendly environments across the nation. This initiative focuses on implementing the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, including ending the distribution of free or low-cost breast milk substitutes in health facilities. The overarching aim is to encourage early and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding, ultimately supporting improved infant health outcomes.

Dr. Chris Fofie, Deputy Director of Reproductive & Child Health within the Family Health Division (FHD) at GHS, represented the Director of FHD at the event. Dr. Fofie highlighted that inadequate breastfeeding contributes to nearly 600,000 child deaths and approximately 100,000 maternal deaths worldwide each year. He added that poor breastfeeding practices result in economic losses surpassing $340 billion annually, while better breastfeeding habits could prevent an estimated 4,000 child deaths.

Addressing the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is crucial, Dr. Fofie emphasized, as these barriers significantly impact both maternal and child health. He called for sustained advocacy efforts to mitigate the health and economic consequences associated with suboptimal breastfeeding practices.

Dr. Fofie appealed to stakeholders—including health facilities, employers, and public and private sector entities—to collaborate in fostering supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers and their infants, ensuring healthier futures for all.