HEALTH AND SANITATION CEC MEMBER LAUNCHES BREASTFEEDING WEEK
The CEC for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech led the residents of Nandi during the launch of the Breastfeeding week graced by World Marathoner Eliud Kipchoge at Kapsisywa Health Center in Chesumei Sub County under the theme Enabling Breastfeeding: Making the difference for working parents. 
This year’s World Breastfeeding week will focus on the links between breastfeeding and good nutrition, food security and reduction of inequalities, said Ruth.
The need for multi-sectorial action to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates was reflected by all speakers at the launch.
In her address, the CEC Member said “Breastfeeding gives babies the best possible start in life, as breastmilk acts as a baby’s first vaccine protecting infants from deadly diseases and giving them all the nourishment they need to survive and thrive.”
During the celebrations of this year’s WBW, the CEC member said the department of health and sanitation pledges to focus on reawakening the actors in the warm chain by strengthening their capacity through education and empowerment.
Breast milk is the only accepted food recommended for infants for the first six months of their lives.
Breastmilk saves children’s lives as it provides antibodies that give them a healthy boost and protect them against many childhood illnesses.
WHO and the Ministry of Health recommend that breastfeeding be initiated within one hour of birth, that it continue with no other foods or liquids for the first six months of life, and that it be continued with complementary feeding (breastfeeding with other age-appropriate foods) until at least 24 months of age.