Samuel Yao Atidzah, the Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation, has urged the government to enforce maternity-friendly workplace policies, including nursing breaks and breastfeeding rooms for nursing mothers.

He also urged fathers to also asked to provide emotional and physical support to breastfeeding mothers.

Atidzah made the call during an interaction with the people of Ho Dome in the Volta Region, at an educational outreach programme, as part of this year’s breastfeeding week celebration.

This year’s celebration, which began on August 1st is on the theme: “Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems,” seeks to strengthen awareness and action around breastfeeding as a vital practice for infant survival, growth and development.

Mr Atidzah emphasised that breastfeeding should not solely be the responsibility of the mother but should be a shared responsibility that required multi-sectoral efforts.

“Let us invest in a healthier and more sustainable future for our babies, by supporting mothers at home, the workplace, health facilities and communities to breastfeed successfully.

“When we educate and empower our breastfeeding mothers we empower generations,” he stated.

The Executive Director noted that the first six months of breastfeeding in the life of a baby remained one of the most effective strategies to reduce infant mortality, improve brain development and ensure strong immunity against diseases.

“We must act now to protect the health of our future leaders,” and called on religious and traditional leaders to champion the message of optimal breastfeeding practices within the churches and communities.

Mr Atidzah also appealed to media houses to amplify breastfeeding education and advocacy nationwide.

He commended the Ghana Health Service, GAVI – the Vaccine Alliance, and other stakeholders for their continued support in promoting maternal and child health through initiatives like GAVI-CDS.

Mr Atidzah encouraged nursing mothers to seek guidance from health professionals on proper breastfeeding techniques and to make use of Community Support Services.

GOSANET Foundation is a Health NGO based in the Volta region and is dedicated to improving the health and socio-economic well-being of vulnerable communities.

The Foundation is currently an Implementation Partner of the GAVI-CDS Project, supporting underserved populations through community outreach, health education and immunisation advocacy.

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below: