Kiambu County to establish breastfeeding zones in public facilities.

Kiambu County plans to establish breastfeeding spaces in facilities and social settings like worship centers, marketplaces, public gathering places/centres and bus/matatu terminus in a bid to support breastfeeding for a healthier nation.

This was revealed at Makongeni Dispensary on Tuesday by Kiambu Health CEC Health Dr. Joseph Murega who was the chief guest at a function organised by the Kiambu Health Department to mark the World Breastfeeding Month

He said that Kiambu had already established a lactation station at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital.

Health Chief Officer Dr Patrick Nyaga noted that the link between breastfeeding and the environment and anchored breastfeeding as a climate-smart decision. He stressed the need to engage individuals on improving the health of the planet through breastfeeding.

Nutrition International, who facilitated the event, committed themselves to supporting the county on similar initiatives so as to promote breastfeeding over processed milks.

The Health Department used the platform to educate mothers on the importance of initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for first six months of life, continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. They also encourage fathers to accompany the mothers to the clinics.

Present at the occasion included the County Nutritionist Rachael Wanjugu ,Kiambu County Nutrition International Coordinator Hannah Mburu and health workers from Makongeni Dispensary.