Turkana: The County Government of Turkana participated in the annual World Breastfeeding Week, observed from August 1 to 7, emphasizing breastfeeding as a critical factor for lifelong health, development, and equity.
According to Kenya News Agency, this year's theme, 'Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,' urged the enhancement of support systems for breastfeeding mothers in both host and refugee communities in Turkana. This includes initiatives in advocacy, community education, and health system collaboration. The Department of Health and Sanitation organized events to highlight the importance of breastfeeding for maternal and child health through various advocacy and educational activities.
Janerose Tioko, Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Services, led the event, highlighting the need for increased awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, especially given Turkana's nutritional challenges. "Breastfeeding delivers a hopeful future not only for children but for societies," Tioko stated, noting its benefits in reducing healthcare costs, enhancing cognitive development, and fostering economic growth.
Despite a 76.5% exclusive breastfeeding rate and an 80.2% rate of timely initiation, Turkana faces significant public health challenges, with one in four children severely malnourished and acute malnutrition consistently above 15%. The region's infant mortality rate, at 29%, is slightly below the national average of 32%.
Nelson Akutan, Senior Programme Coordinator at Save the Children, stressed the necessity of cooperation in combating malnutrition, noting that over 86,000 children under five in Turkana are at risk. He echoed the need for a collaborative approach involving partners, health workers, government, and communities to support breastfeeding efforts.
Joel Lochor, Turkana West Medical Officer of Health, urged families to fully commit to breastfeeding, emphasizing breast milk's role as the optimal food for infants under six months. He called on mothers to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and continue exclusively for six months, with fathers providing support during this critical period.
The County Government has made progress in reducing infant mortality through strategic partnerships and community initiatives, including establishing 1,744 adapted mother support groups and promoting Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) activities.
World Breastfeeding Week in Turkana also featured processions, musical performances, and community skits to promote exclusive breastfeeding and child well-being. Tioko emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in advocating for exclusive breastfeeding to help reduce infant mortality.
The event was attended by various partners, including IsraAid, Plan International, Malteser International, ADRA Kenya, Save The Children, AIC Health Ministries, Nawiri, UNICEF, Kenya Red Cross Society, Amref Health Africa, International Rescue Committee, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.