On Thursday, Algeria marked World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) with a scientific event in Algiers, highlighting the significance of promoting breastfeeding as an “essential practice” for the health of both mothers and their children.
During the gathering at the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), the Director General, Mr. Abderrezak Bouamra, emphasized that “every mother should receive the necessary support to provide her child with the best possible start in life,” referring to breastfeeding as a vital practice.
He noted that this form of nutrition creates “a fundamental bond between mother and child, fosters physical and emotional well-being, and is a crucial element of public health.” He also emphasized the need to “reduce disparities” stemming from socio-economic, geographical, or cultural factors that may hinder breastfeeding.
Mr. Bouamra clarified that the purpose of this event was to “raise awareness among the public about the importance of breastfeeding and to encourage reflection and concrete actions” aimed at promoting what is considered “the best nourishment” for infants.
In this context, Dr. Sana Bouchaib, Head of the Health Promotion Department at INSP, stated that authorities aim to tackle the breastfeeding gap with a target of achieving at least a 50% increase by 2025.
