Bomet Launches World Breastfeeding Week 2026 Community Dialogues
Health officials used the forum to educate residents on the benefits of breastfeeding, noting that it remains one of the most effective ways of improving child survival and overall development.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Anneth Chepng’etich
The County Government of Bomet has launched the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week Community Dialogues, marking the beginning of a countywide campaign to promote optimal breastfeeding and improve maternal and child health.
The event was held at Segutiet Dispensary in Bomet Central Sub-County under the global theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.” The campaign is being implemented through the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) programme, which focuses on improving health outcomes for mothers, newborns and young children through stronger community engagement.
The launch attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including members of the County Health Management Team, the Sub-County Health Management Team, healthcare workers from Segutiet Dispensary, community and religious leaders, and development partners such as the SUN Network. Their participation reflected a shared commitment to strengthening breastfeeding practices and improving the health of children across the county.
Local administrators from Chesoen Ward, led by the area Chief and Assistant Chief, also took part in the event. They worked alongside leaders from the Africa Gospel Church (AGC) to mobilize residents and encourage active participation in discussions aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of breastfeeding.
Health officials used the forum to educate residents on the benefits of breastfeeding, noting that it remains one of the most effective ways of improving child survival and overall development. They explained that breast milk provides essential nutrients that help build a child’s immune system, reduce the risk of infections, prevent malnutrition and support healthy physical and cognitive growth.
The officials further called on families and communities to support breastfeeding mothers by creating environments that allow them to initiate breastfeeding immediately after birth and continue exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a child’s life.
According to county health statistics, Bomet has recorded encouraging progress in child nutrition over the past decade. The prevalence of stunting among children has dropped significantly from 36 percent in 2014 to 22 percent in 2022. Despite these gains, challenges remain. Early initiation of breastfeeding currently stands at 55 percent, while exclusive breastfeeding among infants aged between zero and six months is at 58 percent, figures that health experts say can be improved through sustained public education and community support.
Officials emphasized that increasing awareness at the household level and involving fathers, caregivers, community leaders and healthcare providers will be critical in raising breastfeeding rates and improving the health of mothers and children.
The County Government of Bomet thanked all partners and residents who participated in the launch and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maternal and child healthcare. County officials said they will continue working closely with communities, healthcare workers and development partners to ensure every mother receives the support she needs and every child is given the healthiest possible start in life.
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