The Delta State government has provided training for more than 20 operators of orphanage homes and crèches, focusing on optimal infant and young child feeding practices. Mrs. Pat Ajudua, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, announced this during the inauguration of a one-day capacity-building event for caregivers in state-owned crèches and children’s centers across the state, held in Asaba,leadership report.
The program, conducted in collaboration with the State Food and Nutrition Committee, aimed to enhance the knowledge of participants in caring for the children under their supervision, particularly emphasizing proper infant feeding strategies.
Mrs. Ajudua explained, “We have a significant number of caregivers in orphanage homes and crèches. Therefore, it is essential to educate them on how to effectively care for these children, ensuring balanced vitamin intake to prevent malnutrition.”
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Mr. Benson Etche, the State Nutrition Officer, enlightened participants on the International Code on Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). He urged adherence to these principles to safeguard children from infant morbidity and mortality.
“We are enhancing the capacity of those overseeing government day crèches across the state in Infant and Young Child Feeding, the International Code on Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes, WASH, and Behavioral Change Communication,” said Mr. Etche.
Furthermore, retired Nutrition Expert Beatrice Eluaka, from the Federal Ministry of Health, emphasized the Global Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding, advising nursing mothers and caregivers to practice exclusive breastfeeding without additives.
Mrs. Osetalon Esther, the Coordinator of the Eagle Hand Orphanage Home, who participated in the training, described the program as highly educational.
