Ministry of Health Launches Awareness Campaigns to Support Breastfeeding

The week-long campaign includes awareness activities at five hospitals and health centers, alongside workshops, educational booths, and direct consultations for mothers, all aimed at disseminating accurate information about breastfeeding, answering families’ inquiries, and promoting healthy practices.

Dr. Hesnaya Ayad, Director of the Nutrition and Feeding Department, stated that this year’s campaign slogan embodies the idea that supporting breastfeeding is a shared responsibility requiring the coordinated efforts of health institutions, society, and families, given its direct impact on improving the health of mothers and children.

She clarified that breastfeeding is one of the most effective and scientifically proven health interventions for improving maternal and child health. It provides infants with all their nutritional needs during the first six months of life, boosts their immunity, and reduces the risk of infectious and chronic diseases, while also contributing to their proper growth and development. For mothers, breastfeeding aids in faster recovery after childbirth, lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes, and plays a role in enhancing mental well-being and strengthening the bond between mother and child.

Within the framework of ongoing national efforts, the Ministry continues to implement its programs and initiatives aimed at increasing breastfeeding rates in collaboration with various health sectors. These efforts have contributed to raising the rate of exclusive breastfeeding up to six months to 33 percent, according to the results of the 2025 Nutrition Surveillance Program, reflecting the impact of awareness and training programs and the improvement of services provided to mothers. The Ministry aims to sustain this progress and increase this rate in line with national and global targets.