فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
On Monday, November 25, 2024, the city of Fez hosted a significant workshop organized by the Maternal and Child Health Department of the Directorate of Population. The event aimed to shed light on the findings of a study examining the negative effects of marketing breast milk substitutes. Bringing together experts and officials in health and nutrition, the workshop was part of ongoing efforts to promote breastfeeding and address the challenges faced by mothers.
The event featured prominent national and international figures, including Dr. Salima Saâsaâ, Regional Director of Health and Social Protection in the Fez-Meknes region; Professor Amina Barakat, an expert in breastfeeding and Head of Neonatology at Ibn Sina University Hospital in Rabat; representatives from the World Health Organization and nutrition programs; as well as members of civil society and the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH).
In his opening remarks, Dr. Nabil Benshama, Head of the Maternal and Child Health Department, emphasized the holistic importance of breastfeeding from religious, social, and health perspectives, urging the promotion of this vital practice among mothers. Dr. Salima Saâsaâ highlighted the risks associated with the marketing of breast milk substitutes and called for effective strategies to counteract these challenges and raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding.
The workshop featured pivotal scientific presentations, including one by Professor Amina Barakat, who detailed the research findings on the impact of breast milk substitute marketing. It also reviewed the outcomes of the “First 1,000 Days” campaign and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection’s strategy in this domain.
Discussions led to a consensus among participants on the need for collective efforts from all stakeholders, including the health sector and civil society, to strengthen breastfeeding practices and mitigate the influence of substitute marketing. The workshop underscored that promoting breastfeeding is not just a health issue but a societal and developmental priority requiring collective awareness and sustained collaboration.
source : fesnews media
