Accra: Mr Samuel Yao Atidzah, the Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation, has called on the government to enforce maternity-friendly workplace policies, including nursing breaks and breastfeeding rooms for nursing mothers. He also appealed to fathers to provide emotional and physical support to breastfeeding mothers. Atidzah made these statements during an educational outreach programme in Ho Dome, Volta Region, as part of this year's breastfeeding week celebration.
According to Ghana News Agency, this year's celebration, which began on August 1st, is themed 'Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems' and aims to enhance awareness and action around breastfeeding as essential for infant survival, growth, and development. Mr Atidzah stressed that breastfeeding should not be the sole responsibility of mothers but rather a shared duty necessitating multi-sectoral collaboration. He urged investment in a healthier and sustainable future for babies by supporting mothers at home, workplaces, health facilities, and communities to breastfeed successfully.
Mr Atidzah highlighted that the first six months of breastfeeding are crucial for reducing infant mortality, improving brain development, and ensuring strong immunity against diseases. He called for immediate action to protect the health of future leaders and urged religious and traditional leaders to advocate for optimal breastfeeding practices in churches and communities. He also appealed to media houses to amplify breastfeeding education and advocacy nationwide.
Commending the Ghana Health Service, GAVI - the Vaccine Alliance, and other stakeholders for their support in promoting maternal and child health, Mr Atidzah encouraged nursing mothers to seek advice from health professionals on proper breastfeeding techniques and to utilize Community Support Services. GOSANET Foundation, based in the Volta region, is a health NGO focused on improving the health and socio-economic well-being of vulnerable communities. The Foundation is currently an Implementation Partner of the GAVI-CDS Project, assisting underserved populations through community outreach, health education, and immunisation advocacy.
