Mbabane – Eswatini sent a multidisciplinary team to Swakopmund, Namibia, for a Southern African Development Community regional workshop aimed at strengthening the implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. The workshop brought together member states to share experiences and develop strategies to protect and promote breastfeeding.
The Eswatini delegation included UNICEF health specialists, the Ministry of Health legal officer, communications staff, World Vision representatives, and Siniketiwe Zwane, Head of Programs at the Ministry of Health and Eswatini National Nutrition Council. Zwane presented on the country’s current situation, including the status of Code implementation, child nutrition indicators, and priority areas for action.
Mr Behlule Ndlela, Ministry of Health Legal Officer, stressed the need for regulations that promote and protect breastfeeding while ensuring their enforcement. The workshop also focused on building regional networks for peer support and accountability, sharing lessons, and developing country-specific solutions.
Breastfeeding remains a national priority in Eswatini, where stunting affects 20 percent of children, underweight 5 percent, wasting 1.8 percent, and overweight 12.5 percent.
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