Raaji-BWF is working for the awareness of women’s rights in every field of life. Today we would like to get your attention on one of the most important components of breastfeeding. The discussion of breastfeeding is not a modern statement; religiously breastfeeding significance is present in the Holy Quran Allah SWT said:
“Mothers shall breastfeed their children for two whole years, for those who wish to complete the term.” (2:233)
Scientifically breastfeeding is said to be one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. According to the WHO report following facts and figures are very important to consider:
- Globally, 3 in 5 babies are not breastfed in the first hour of life.
- Nearly 2 out of 3 infants are not exclusively breastfed for the recommended 6 months.
- More than 820,000 children could be saved yearly if all children between 0-23 months were optimally breastfed.
- Only 41% of infants under 6 months of age are exclusively breastfed.
Breastmilk is the best nutrient for a child which contains antibodies to protect against childhood illness; it is one of the most convenient, clean, and safe for a child but it is very important how a mother who is having good health to feed her child with an appropriate and good amount of breast milk.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Pakistan, the flood has resulted in 434 deaths (including 175 children and 73 women) and 605 people have been injured since 1st July 2022. 36,469 households have been affected, of which 60% are in Balochistan. In addition, around 800 schools (600 in Balochistan alone), 71 bridges, and 977 km of road sections have been affected across the country.
How life is miserable after findings these stats and seeing the people of flood-affected areas survive. Population Council Pakistan and UNFPA shared the provincial statistics of all the state which is showing that Balochistan has a fertility rate of 4.0%. Such a high fertility rate contributes to malnutrition, 3000 deaths occur annually and 66 out of 1000 infants dies at the age of one year, this report was shared in 2020 but now the statistics will be drastically increased after the recent natural disaster.
Raaji-BWF is a volunteer working in district Lasbeela, Balochistan which is the most affected area by flood in 2022. Every day our team reports the issues and problems of the community regarding pregnant females who are facing complications in the last terms and these complications have become the cause of their deaths during the mobility of pregnant women from affected villages to cities. Every child has a right to live a healthy life but here in Balochistan people are surviving to have at least the basic necessities of life.
- The Importance of Breastfeeding and Balochistan - 19/08/2022
