This week, as we observe World Breastfeeding Week under the theme, “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, UNICEF is calling on governments, donors, civil society, and the private sector to step up efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding, today more than ever.
“Breastfeeding provides children with the best start in life,” said Mariko Kagoshima, UNICEF Acting Representative in Ethiopia. “It is a fundamental human right for mothers and babies and must be safeguarded and encouraged.”
The proportion of infants under six months who are exclusively breastfed in Ethiopia is 61 per cent and surpassed the World Health Assembly (WHA) target of increasing the rate of exclusive breastfeeding up to at least 50 per cent by 2025. However, according to the recent National Food and Nutrition Baseline Survey (2022), about 1 in 3 babies are given infant formula. To address this, all stakeholders need to collaborate to create an environment which will educate the public about the proven benefits of breastfeeding.
Firstly, early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, followed by exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life, and continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond, is the best start for a child’s health and development.
Secondly, the aggressive advertising of breastmilk substitutes is undermining breastfeeding practices and jeopardizing infant health in Ethiopia must be curbed. This risk is exacerbated during emergencies, highlighting the critical need to nurture and support breastfeeding in all contexts. In response, Ethiopia enacted a Baby Food Control Directive. The directive explicitly prohibits any communication, including advertising and promotion, regarding infant formula to individuals, communities, or the general public. UNICEF calls on all stakeholders to unite in backing the government’s efforts to monitor and enforce this crucial regulation.
Thirdly, this year’s theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All” aims to position breastfeeding as an equalizer in our society. It emphasizes the need to ensure accessible breastfeeding mechanisms for everyone, particularly vulnerable mothers who require additional assistance to overcome breastfeeding disparities. To achieve this, a unified approach from all stakeholders is essential to deliver comprehensive and widespread breastfeeding support that leaves no one behind.
As a leading advocate for children’s rights and well-being, UNICEF reaffirms its commitment to working with the Ethiopian government and other partners to further support exclusive breastfeeding practices.