00:00World Breastfeeding Week is being observed globally from August 1st to 7th,
00:05and here in Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Health in partnership with PAHO is leading the charge.
00:12This year's theme, Prioritize Breastfeeding, Create Sustainable Support Systems,
00:17highlights the importance of consistent and equitable support for breastfeeding mothers.
00:22Minister of Health Dr. Lachram Boudou says the theme aligns with this country's commitment
00:27to giving every mother and child the best possible start.
00:31He revealed that Trinidad and Tobago's breastfeeding rate now stands at 90%, surpassing the global target of 80%.
00:38Over the past few years, I am proud to say that Trinidad and Tobago has made significant strides
00:45in breastfeeding promotion and support.
00:48Today, four of our hospitals, Point 14, Mount Hope, Sandy Grandy and Scarborough,
00:54are globally accredited under the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative,
00:58but two more on track for assessment soon.
01:01Dr. Boudou stressed that breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of chronic health conditions,
01:07such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and other non-communicable diseases.
01:12He also announced the plans to establish Trinidad and Tobago's first human milk bank,
01:19with support from Brazil and technical guidance from PAHO and the World Health Organization.
01:24Once completed, this facility will ensure that every infant in need has access to life-saving human milk,
01:32regardless of circumstance.
01:34There are already over 700 milk banks globally.
01:37Once operational, Trinidad and Tobago will not only benefit locally,
01:43but be positioned to guide other countries in the region seeking to establish their own milk banks.
01:48Dr. Boudou says the initiative supports the government's broader vision of achieving sustainable development goals by 2030,
01:56especially in the health care sector.
01:59He closed by encouraging all women to breastfeed,
02:02emphasizing the long-term health benefits for both mother and child.
02:06Shala Kistu, TV6 News.
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