Uasin Gishu County Launches State-of-the-Art Breastfeeding Space Amid Global Breastfeeding Month Celebrations
the Ministry of Health (MoH) has raised concerns over a worrying trend: a significant decrease in breastfeeding rates among young mothers due to fears of ‘sagging’ breasts.

The County Government of Uasin Gishu has inaugurated a state-of-the-art breastfeeding space in Eldoret City, designed to support working mothers by accommodating up to 15 children at a time. The facility aims to provide a more convenient and efficient environment for County staff, thereby enhancing public service delivery while they care for their young ones.
The launch comes as millions of women and families worldwide join lactating mothers to mark this year’s World Breastfeeding Month, which kicked off on August 1 under the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.” Breastfeeding has been emphasized as a crucial aspect of motherhood, creating the first strong bond between mother and baby—a bond that continues to grow throughout life.
However, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has raised concerns over a worrying trend: a significant decrease in breastfeeding rates among young mothers due to fears of ‘sagging’ breasts. Recent MoH records indicate a 10 percent increase in bottle-feeding, with three out of every ten infants now being bottle-fed in their first 24 months.
Speaking at the launch, County First Lady H.E. Salina Bii stressed that breastfeeding is not just a natural practice but a critical pillar of child health and nutrition.
“Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies, bolstering the immune system and laying the foundation for a healthy future. It also reduces maternal health risks and offers a cost-effective form of contraception,” she stated.
Mrs. Bii encouraged other institutions to adopt similar models, fostering safe and supportive breastfeeding environments across the community.
Dr. Janet Kosgei, County Executive for Lands, representing Health Services CECM Dr. Abraham Serem, announced that the County plans to replicate this model across all its facilities. “By promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continuing for two years and beyond, we are making significant strides toward closing the gap in maternal and child health,” Dr. Kosgei noted. She also highlighted the importance of such spaces in encouraging young mothers to balance their professional duties with the care of their children.
Promotive and Preventive Health Chief Officer Dr. Paul Wangwe urged other institutions to embrace similar programs to ensure that babies receive proper nutrition.
The new breastfeeding space includes private booths for discreet breastfeeding, a breast milk cooler, child-friendly areas with toys and play facilities, a handwashing station for hygiene, and entertainment and rest areas for mothers’ overall comfort.
The launch was attended by several county officials, including Chief Officers Marion Birgen (Education), CPA Victorine Kapkiai (Economic Planning), Ruth Samoei (Cooperatives), and Directors Dr. Evans Kiprotich (Health), Dr. Sarah Kipkulei (Planning and Administration), and Faith Seroney (Branding).