The Upper West Regional Health Directorate (UWRHD) has launched a campaign, dubbed “start right, feed right” which is meant to sensitize parents and care givers on appropriate breast feeding and complementary feeding for infants and children for the first two years of their lives.
According to the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr Damien Punguyire, the first 1000 days of a child’s life are particularly important, as optimal nutrition during this period is associated with lower morbidity and mortality, reduced risk of chronic disease and better development overall.
Addressing participants at the launch of the campaign in Wa on Wednesday, Dr. Damien Punguyire said optimal breastfeeding is so critical that it could save the lives of over 820,000 children under the age of 5 years each year worldwide.
He explained that when newborn babies are introduced to breastfeeding during the first one hour of birth, it protects them from infectious diseases as well as help reduce newborn mortality.
Dr Punguyire noted that children who were properly breastfed developed well, both physically and mentally, which positively impacts their academic performance. He said longer breastfeeding also improves the wellbeing of mothers.
He further indicated that early initiation of breastfeeding has helped improve the performance of the region in terms of infant and child development.
The Upper West Regional Coordinating Director, Mr Gilbert Nuuri-Teng noted that the region has chalked successes in reducing infant mortality and child development challenges such as stunting and malnutrition. He however said there is the need for concerted efforts to improve on the gains made.
Queen mothers, chiefs, representatives from the clergy, government agency and departments as well as stakeholders in the health sector attended the launch.
The eight month long campaign is aimed at generating interest and support among stakeholders including the traditional authorities, the media, civil society groups and health workers for optimal feeding practices from birth to two years which is a foundation for lifelong health and vitality for every child.
BY: ALHASSAN TAJUDEEN
