Health ministry to help employers set up, equip lactation rooms

 

The Ministry of Health will work with employers to set up dedicated lactation rooms in workplaces.

This, according to the ministry, will provide breastfeeding mothers with safe and private spaces to express milk or breastfeed during working hours with convenience and ease.

PS Public health and professional standards Mary Muthoni said the ministry will ensure that workplaces are equipped with necessary facilities, such as breastfeeding-friendly furniture and storage for expressed milk.

The move aims at ensuring working mothers balance their office hours and parental responsibilities.

Similarly, the ministry plans to have nationwide awareness campaigns to educate both employers and employees about the need for exclusive breastfeeding.

"Recognising the importance of breastfeeding for both the mother and the child, the government will advocate for reasonable nursing breaks for working mothers,” Muthoni said.

“The measure aims at giving mothers the time they need to prioritise their children's well-being without compromising their career aspirations," she noted.

In addition, the ministry in collaboration with nongovernmental organizations and healthcare providers will train and support employers on the importance of workplace support for breastfeeding mothers.

Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby.

Breast milk contains antibodies that protect against diseases such as diarrhea and respiratory infections.

This helps to minimize the risk of death among infants.

Babies who are breastfed also experience long-term benefits such as a reduced risk of developing diseases like diabetes and obesity later in life.

They also tend to have higher IQs and perform better in school.

Additionally, breastfeeding aids in the development of the baby's teeth and jaws, and creates a strong bond between the baby and the mother.    BY THE STAR