The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs concluded Breastfeeding Awareness Month with a successful event on Tuesday, August 27th, 2024. The Breastfeeding Fiesta Workshop took place at St. Jude Hospital’s Conference Room, bringing together parents and healthcare professionals to promote breastfeeding in Saint Lucia.
The workshop was not only educational but also celebratory. Lisa Hunt, Chief Nutritionist at the Ministry, emphasized the significance of the event. “Today, we end Breastfeeding Awareness Month with what we call the Breastfeeding Fiesta. Breastfeeding should be celebrated. We want all Saint Lucians to know that while it may be challenging, successful breastfeeding requires everyone’s support,” Hunt said.
The workshop also highlighted the government’s commitment to improving breastfeeding support. Health Minister Hon. Moses Jn Baptiste stressed the need for collective effort in promoting breastfeeding. “Our society must unite to support breastfeeding among parents. Saint Lucia is currently working on implementing the Baby-Friendly Initiative in our hospitals. This initiative aims to create an environment that supports, protects, and promotes breastfeeding, with the goal of increasing breastfeeding rates,” Minister Jn Baptiste explained.
Participants like Tara Renee praised the workshop’s impact. “It was very informative, and I am pleased with the outcome. It’s wonderful to see everyone bonding with their children. I hope we have more workshops like this,” Renee said.
Such events are vital in improving breastfeeding rates and enhancing the health and well-being of mothers and children across the island. The Breastfeeding Fiesta Workshop not only provided valuable information but also underscored the importance of community and institutional support in fostering a breastfeeding-friendly culture in Saint Lucia.
