…Says protecting mothers and infants is key to building healthier, climate-resilient communities
By Kingsley Samuel
The Kaduna State Climate Change Accountability Mechanism (KadCCAM) has identified stronger breastfeeding support as part of the solution to tackling child malnutrition, improving maternal health and helping communities withstand the growing impacts of climate change.
Marking the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, observed globally from August 1 to 7, the group called for closer collaboration among governments, development partners, civil society organisations and communities to create an enabling environment for mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies.
In a statement, KadCCAM Co-Chair, Ibrahim Yakubu, said breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable interventions for ensuring healthy childhood development while also contributing to environmental sustainability.
According to him, breastfeeding reduces dependence on resource-intensive alternatives, making it an important climate-friendly practice that supports family and community resilience.
Yakubu warned that climate change continues to worsen food insecurity, public health challenges and the livelihoods of vulnerable populations, stressing that maternal and child nutrition must be integrated into climate action and sustainable development policies.
He said protecting and promoting breastfeeding should remain a priority for governments and stakeholders seeking practical solutions to improve health outcomes and strengthen community resilience.
He urged policymakers and development partners to implement policies that provide mothers with the information, protection and support needed to successfully practise exclusive breastfeeding.
“As we commemorate World Breastfeeding Week 2026, let us renew our commitment to policies and actions that connect climate responsibility, maternal health, child nutrition and community resilience,” Yakubu said.
He added that sustained investment in breastfeeding support would not only improve maternal and child health outcomes but also contribute to building a healthier, more sustainable and climate-resilient Kaduna State.
