The benefits of breastfeeding are in the limelight as authorities in South Sudan join the international community in observing World Breastfeeding Week.

The event kicked off in Juba on Monday 1 August, with a campaign targeting new mothers at the Al Sahaba Hospital and the Malekia health centre.

At the launch, Jubek State Health Minister Dr James Jada maintained that breastfeeding contributes to a healthier, more equitable and more sustainable environment.

Among other recommendations, health authorities are encouraging lactating and pregnant mothers to eat well with a view to boosting the production of breast milk and the growth of their babies.

“If you have been eating two meals at home, you want to add an extra meal to provide energy for both you and the baby,” nutrition expert Rita Juan Dimiti advised and added:

 “It doesn’t mean that you have to eat a whole meal, but perhaps taking snacks in between meals, especially fruits, of which South Sudan has a great variety.”