The Gauteng MEC for Health Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi has urged breastfeeding mothers to frequently donate milk to the province’s four Breastmilk Banks to help admitted pre-term infants get nutritious meals.
The World Breastfeeding Week, which is observed annually from 1 to 7 August, calls for action by individuals, communities, society, and organisation to promote, protect and support breastfeeding and improve the health of babies.
This year’s commemorations are observed under the theme “Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared Responsibility”.
“As a society, we have a shared responsibility to promote, protect and support breastfeeding to ensure children receive the best start in life, optimal health now and in future.
“This cuts across society, we should encourage breastfeeding at our homes, at work and in our communities,” said Mokgethi.
She added by saying infant formula does not match up to breastmilk.
“With breast milk, the baby receives optimal nutrition and there are lifetime health benefits for the child. Adults who were breastfed as babies may have a lower risk of obesity, diabetes mellitus and heart disease,” she said.
The Breast Milk Banks are:
– Sebokeng Regional Hospital,
– Kalafong Tertiary Hospital,
– Steve Biko Academic Hospital; and
– Leratong Regional Hospital.
