The Air Force Base Accra has hosted a Breastfeeding campaign on Thursday 8 August 2024 under the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”.

The interaction which was led by a team from the Nutritionist Unit of the Public Health Division at the 37 Military Hospital forms part of this year’s celebration of the World Breastfeeding Week 2024.

Speaking at the session, Senior Public Health Nutritionist, Madam Jennifer Sika highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that breastfeeding is a key factor in the early development of children. She mentioned that, adhering to proper breastfeeding procedures go a long way in ensuring the health and well-being of both mothers and infants.

“Statistics indicates a marginal improvement from 52.3% (2014) to 53.1% (2022) in the trends of breastfeeding among mothers therefore the need to reinforce the importance of breastfeeding” she added.

During the session, the team from the Nutritionist Unit provided comprehensive education on the benefits of breastfeeding where they addressed some common misconceptions and offered practical advice to mothers.  Also, participants engaged in discussions about the challenges many mothers face in their breastfeeding journey and the support they need to ensure a successfully breastfeed.

Similarly, the campaign is expected to be held across various garrisons to inform and educate troops about the importance of breastfeeding.

Earlier this month, the Nutrition Unit at the Public Health Division launched the month-long campaign to encourage all families, Defence Civilian Staff and Troops to support the initiative.

Present at the event were, the Head of Health Promotion and Education, Dr Nyinaku, Nursing Officer in Charge of Public Health, Colonel Quaye, OIC Health Information System, Lt Col Tetteh, Head of Diabetics Department, Madam Andaratu and the Head of Nutrition Unit, Madam Nancy Bia.