(KPL) The Ministry of Health of the Lao PDR, in collaboration with UNICEF, Catholic Relief Services – Laos and Alive & Thrive, with support from the Embassy of Ireland and key development partners, commemorated World Breastfeeding Week 2025 on Aug 6 under the theme “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.”

This occasion highlights breastfeeding as a cornerstone of child health and development, while emphasizing the urgent need for stronger investment in policies and systems that support breastfeeding mothers.

“Investments in breastfeeding is an investment in the country’s future. It can help improve child health, reduce poverty and protect the environment,” said Ms. Aphone Visathep, Vice Minister of Health.

“The Ministry of Health urges all sectors to invest in breastfeeding, including in maternity protections, skilled counselling services and strong enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes,” added Ms. Aphone Visathep.

Breastfeeding is a natural, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to give every child the healthiest start to life. Breastmilk provides optimal nutrition, strengthens immunity and fosters cognitive development - all while producing zero carbon emissions.

By contrast, infant formula milk production contributes to climate change through high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, water use and packaging waste. In the Lao PDR, formula consumption is estimated to generate 5.3 to 6.7 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions and consume over 2.2 billion litres of water each year.

“Support for breastfeeding from doctors, midwives and nurses is key for improving health and nutrition outcomes of a mother and her child. At the same time, effective enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, including formula labelling regulations, is essential to protect families from harmful marketing practices,” said Ms. Takaho Fukami, UNICEF Deputy Representative in the Lao PDR.

The Lao PDR continues to make progress in strengthening national systems to support breastfeeding. The Ministry of Health’s Food and Drug Department has endorsed labelling regulations for breastmilk substitutes, with a national enforcement decree currently under development. Monitoring now includes online retail and hospital platforms.

Furthermore, all 18 provincial hospitals of the Lao PDR now employ staff accredited in breastfeeding counselling, with 87 healthcare workers trained between 2022 and 2024. Seven hospitals have been recognised with the Breastfeeding Model Hospital Award for excellence in maternal and childcare. In addition, the Ministry of Health has launched a new maternal, infant and young child nutrition MIYCN counselling package, strengthening breastfeeding support from pregnancy through early childhood.

“This week allows us a chance to reflect on the success and progress that the Lao PDR has made in prioritizing breastfeeding,” said Rob Green, Acting Country Representative for CRS Laos. “By supporting sustainable systems, we can build a future together where every child in the Lao PDR has the best possible start in life – nourished by breastmilk, supported by community, and protected by strong systems.”

KPL